What Could Be Done to Make AoE3:DE More Profitable and Bring in More Players/Dev Attention?
I’ve been thinking a lot about the current state of Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition and wanted to hear your thoughts. While I love the game and enjoy everything it has to offer, it’s clear that AoE3:DE operates mostly as a single-sale title, with no ongoing monetization model or consistent attention from the devs.
This got me wondering: What could be done to make the game more profitable while also attracting more players and increasing its longevity?
Some ideas I had for discussion :
Cosmetics/Customization Packs: • Skins for explorers, units, or even UI elements. • City customizations for Home Cities—new decorations, themes, or banners.
Microtransactions for Convenience (not pay-to-win): • Additional civilization slots or custom mod content integrated into the official store.
New Expansions or DLCs: • Add more civilizations or campaigns. • Introduce “what-if” scenarios with alternate histories to appeal to both casual and competitive players.
Upgrade the Multiplayer Interface: • The current multiplayer interface feels outdated and clunky. • Improve matchmaking, lobby systems, and social features like clans, friend invites, and voice chat. • Add features like spectator modes with better tools for casters to encourage a more active community.
Esports or Competitive Scene Funding: • Build up the competitive scene with tournaments, prize pools, and events to drive visibility.
Marketing Push: • Promote the game with streamers, content creators, and social media campaigns to bring in new blood.
Do you think ideas like these could work for AoE3:DE, or is there something else that could help? Would adding optional monetization harm the game, or could it actually ensure its survival for years to come?