The Three Kingdoms era, spanning from 220 to 280 AD, represents a pivotal chapter in Chinese history and culture. Emerging from the collapse of the Han Dynasty, which had been weakened by internal strife and corruption, this period saw the division of China into three rival states: Wei, Shu, and Wu. The intense military conflicts and political maneuvering among warlords such as Cao Cao, Liu Bei, and the Sun Clan have been immortalized in the classic novel “Romance of the Three Kingdoms,” blending historical events with myth and legend. Much like the fall of the Roman Empire signaled the beginning of the Middle Ages in Europe, the disintegration of the Han Dynasty and the ensuing Three Kingdoms era can be viewed as the beginning of the medieval period for China, marking a transition from the ancient imperial unity to a time of fragmentation and regional power struggles.
The significance of the Three Kingdoms era extends far beyond its immediate historical events, deeply influencing Chinese culture and intellectual life. This period was marked by significant advancements in military strategy and tactics. Additionally, it was a time of flourishing literature, philosophy, and art, which left an indelible mark on Chinese cultural heritage. Thus, the Three Kingdoms era is not only a critical historical epoch but also a foundational period that shaped the cultural and intellectual landscape of medieval China.
Which civilizations are being included in The Three Kingdoms Expansion?
In The Three Kingdoms expansion, you will embark on an epic conquest across China and take command of five powerful new civilizations., showcasing unique and innovative features. Battle for supremacy with the titular Three Kingdoms — Shu, Wei, and Wu — each with their own distinctive playstyles, legendary leaders, and devastating unit abilities. Choose to lead Lui Bei’s righteous Shu kingdom as they struggle to restore the Han dynasty, harness the power of Cao Cao’s Wei with unmatched cavalry tactics, or conquer with Wu’s naval and infantry supremacy led by the Sun Clan.
Then venture to the northern frontiers of China with the Jurchen and Khitan civilizations, gallop across the steppes with formidable Khitan cavalry, and lay waste to your enemies with the devastating Jurchen gunpowder weaponry.
What are Heroes? Can they be used in Ranked?
The Romance of the Three Kingdoms places a significant emphasis on the heroes of the era, whose valor, loyalty, and strategic brilliance are central to the narrative. Figures like Cao Cao, Liu Bei, and Sun Quan are depicted not only as shrewd leaders but also as paragons of various virtues and vices, embodying the complexities of human nature. Their larger-than-life personas and the intricate relationships between them add depth to the historical events, making the story resonate with themes of honor, betrayal, and ambition.
In The Three Kingdoms campaigns, Heroes will play a pivotal role with their devastating abilities like Green Dragon Strike, Superhuman Aim, and Exploding Bolt. These heroes will shape the narrative and gameplay of the campaign.
Most of these heroes will only be available in The Three Kingdoms Campaign, but a select few will be available in single player Skirmish and Multiplayer matches without their deadly active abilities, playing the role of an important support unit rather than an unstoppable one-man army.
Recruit Cao Cao when you play as the Wei and utilize his passive ability The Emperor’s Decree to have your nearby military units gain additional attack speed.
Call upon Liu Bei when you play as the Shu and make use of his passive ability Protector of the People, which regenerates your nearby units’ hitpoints.
Fight with Sun Jian when you play as the Wu and employ his passive ability Southland Tactics to make your nearby troops move faster.
These three fundamental figures of The Three Kingdoms period are integral to their civilizations – by including them as units in skirmish play, we hope to provide a more authentic and immersive experience for all our players!
Can I still play as the Chinese civilization?
Yes! While The Three Kingdoms Expansion adds 5 brand-new civilizations centered around historical China, the original Chinese civilization is still present, more authentic and powerful than ever! The Chinese have been reworked to include several new units and bonuses that properly reflect their rich history; Chinese innovation in technology and weaponry is finally reflected in the many gunpowder and naval units now available to them.
And not just Chinese, but Koreans also receive a substantial update to their units, technologies and bonuses, to elevate their gameplay and further their identity as a naval and siege civilization.
All these improvements to Chinese and Koreans are available for free to all players of Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition. Load your Rocket Carts, aim your Fire Lancers, and dive into The Three Kingdoms Expansion!
Pre-Order The Three Kingdoms Now!
Dive into the epic history and legends of China with The Three Kingdoms! Lead five new civilizations – Shu, Wei, Wu, Jurchens, and Khitans – through an era where history and legend collide in a battle for supremacy. Fight your way across China with three new campaigns, commanding the forces of Liu Bei, Cao Cao, and the Sun Clan, each with their unique units, technologies, and heroes with devastating abilities!
The Three Kingdoms is now available for pre-order with a 15% discount on Steam, Microsoft Store, and Xbox – releasing May 6th!
What is the Difference between Pre-ordering Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition and Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Premium Edition?
Pre-order now and choose between Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition or Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Premium Edition.
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Premium Edition
The Mountain Royals DLC
All previously released DLCs including Chronicles: Battle for Greece, Return of Rome, and more!
24 animated profile icons*
24 animated profile icons*
X
Up to 5 days of Early Access
X
The all-new TheThree Kingdoms expansion (releasing May 6th)
When does Early Access for Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Premium Edition on PlayStation 5 begin?
Pre-ordering Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Premium Edition will grant up to 5 days of early access.
*Please note that The Three Kingdoms is not part of early access.
Will Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Premium Edition on PlayStation 5 Provide Early Access to The Three Kingdoms Expansion?
No early access to The Three Kingdoms expansion for PlayStation 5 players. PlayStation 5 Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Premium Edition owners will get access to The Three Kingdoms expansion May 6th, alongside the Age of Empires community on Xbox and PC.
Pre-order Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition on PlayStation 5 Now!
devtrackers.gg
