Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition fans have something exciting to look forward to: a brand-new expansion named The Three Kingdoms. Set to be launched in May 2025, this latest DLC installment adds a fresh layer of strategy and storytelling to the beloved game. For those eager to dive in early, pre-orders are available at a tempting discount.
Since its 2019 release, this enhanced version of the classic real-time strategy game from Ensemble Studios has consistently expanded with four major content drops. The most recent was the November 2024 release of the expansion titled Chronicles: Battle for Greece.
Just five months later, publisher Xbox Game Studios is set to release yet another expansion—The Three Kingdoms. True to its name, this DLC draws inspiration from China’s vibrant third-century historical era. Players will get to explore five new civilizations: Shu, Wei, Wu, Jurchens, and Khitans. Additionally, the expansion includes three campaigns and introduces six new units.
Focusing on the new content, The Three Kingdoms DLC will add some exciting elements to Age of Empires 2: DE. Players can expect to command units like the formidable Hei Guang Cavalry and Traction Trebuchets, capable of unleashing long-range devastation. On the water, new units such as Lou Chuans—massive floating fortresses—and the versatile Dragon Ships make their debut. Rounding out the roster are the firepower-heavy Fire Lancers and Rocket Carts.
The campaigns included in this expansion—titled Liu Bei, Cao Cao, and The Sun Clan—promise to be just as full of drama and strategic depth as fans have come to expect. Each story unfolds around a specific civilization, with Liu Bei chronicling Shu, Cao Cao highlighting Wei, and The Sun Clan centering on Wu. Expect warfare, intrigue, and thrills at every turn.
Pre-orders for The Three Kingdoms are now open, offering a 15% discount via both Steam and the Microsoft/Xbox Store. PlayStation users keen on a bundled experience can purchase the Premium Edition of Age of Empires 2: DE for PS5, set to launch on the same day for $99.99. In addition, a substantial update for the base game is expected before the month’s end, featuring enhanced castle visuals, UI upgrades to the tech tree, game balancing, new maps, and the introduction of random map scripting capabilities.
