Games can be divided into those that are forgotten shortly after the release, and those that, despite the past time, continue to enjoy the very popularity of players. The latter undoubtedly includes Age of Empires 2, which is 25 years old this year.

Microsoft played a significant role in maintaining an impressive fan base for such a long time, which has been actively supporting the development of Age of Empires II for several years. Thanks to the participation of the Redmond giant, the game remains fresh and relevant for experienced players, and also attracts a new audience.

"Microsoft is amazing. This company is very important for the game, without them we would be left without financing major events, and we would not have all these amazing changes and updates", – told Hera, one of the most successful Age of Empires II players, in an interview with Push to Talk.

And although it is difficult to disagree with this, the fact that Age of Empires II continues to work is mainly the merit of a devoted community. Age of Empires Business Director Will McCahil recently explained that AOE2 players are "The most involved and devoted group of fans", which he has ever seen.

It was RTS enthusiasts that supported the game at a time when she could not count on proper support from Microsoft.

Most players went to the LAN games and solitary regime. But some have remained and created substitution services that are largely responsible for success, especially e-sports that we have today.

Microsoft saw this desire and decided to take part in the revival of the game. This is evidenced, for example, in October last year, the expansion of Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition called The Mountain Royals, which introduced the Armenian and Georgian civilization in the game.

Interview with McCakhill caused a stormy discussion on Reddit. In the comments, AOE2 fans not only admire the support of Microsoft, but simply remember the game. Here are a few examples:

I have been playing it from 10 years old. Now I’m the father of two children. I never dared to play rating games or compete with other players. I just like to replay my favorite stories from the campaign, and it is amazing that the game still gives me as much joy as in childhood,.

Constant support is a cherry on the top of the cake. In recent years, they have added fantastic content to the game.

Absolutely legendary game. Once my parents punished me for playing it. Damn, I still play it, and I am already over 30.