Age of Mythology: Retold Review: Is It Worth Playing?

For fans of the original or the RTS genre, Retold is an easy recommendation. It's a comprehensive modernization, not just a texture upscale. The visual overhaul is significant, gameplay has been refined for smoother control, and the inclusion of expected modern features like improved matchmaking and mod support adds tremendous value. If you crave a deep, mythology-infused strategy game with a stellar campaign and competitive multiplayer, this is a definitive and worthy purchase.

The expansive, story-driven campaign is the centerpiece, offering roughly 25-30 hours of gameplay for a standard playthrough. Completionists aiming for all objectives and secrets can expect 35+ hours. Beyond that, the real longevity comes from skirmishes against the robust AI, competitive and cooperative multiplayer modes, and potential future content. Like any great RTS, the playtime can extend into hundreds of hours for those engaged in online battles and community scenarios.

Absolutely. Retold features full-featured multiplayer supporting both competitive and cooperative play. You can challenge friends in ranked or casual matches, team up in alliances for epic team battles, or even cooperate in modified scenarios and the campaign. Enhanced netcode and modernized lobby systems aim to provide a stable and seamless social experience, making it easier than ever to forge (or shatter) alliances with your pantheon of choice.

Age of Mythology: Retold is confirmed for release on PC (Steam, Microsoft Store) and Xbox Series X|S, with full cross-play support between these platforms. It will be available on Xbox Game Pass for both PC and Console on day one. There is no announced version for PlayStation or Nintendo Switch. This strategy aligns with Microsoft's approach to its first-party titles, making it highly accessible to subscribers.

Compared to a modern RTS like Age of Empires IV, Retold offers a more fantastical and asymmetrical experience. While AoE IV focuses on historical authenticity and refined traditional mechanics, Retold's core appeal is its divine powers, mythical units, and distinct god choices that radically alter playstyles. It's faster-paced and more hero-centric. It stands out for its unique flavor, offering strategic depth through legendary creatures and godly interventions rather than pure historical simulation.