Age of Mythology: Retold Scores 75, Mixed Reactions to Legacy DLC

Reflections on Age of Mythology: Retold and Its DLC Dilemma

Age of Mythology: Retold, a contemporary reimagining of the beloved 2002 strategy classic, has garnered attention for its delicate balance of nostalgia and modernization. Our review, which awarded it a respectable score of 75, highlights its ability to refresh certain outdated elements while preserving the essence that fans cherish.

However, a cloud looms over this otherwise promising revival. Players have noted that the game currently offers only one downloadable content (DLC) pack, aside from a soundtrack—the Legacy Deity Portrait Pack. Priced at £5, this DLC allows players to access portraits from the original release, but many are questioning its value. The sentiment among the community is palpable, with some players expressing frustration over paying for what they perceive as outdated images that could easily be replicated by a modder in a matter of hours.

One player lamented, “WORSE THAN HORSE ARMOUR DLC,” evoking memories of past controversies in the gaming world. Another, who had purchased the advanced access version, remarked, “I got it for free, but so should everyone else. They are 20-year-old images, and the players that would be interested in the old images are the same players that have supported the series for the past 20 years.”

While the criticism of the DLC is understandable, it’s important to consider the broader context. The premium version of the game, which includes this DLC, appears to offer reasonable value. For an additional £10, players received seven days of early access, a new god to explore, and two forthcoming expansions—features that seem to justify the price tag for dedicated fans.

In terms of overall reception, Age of Mythology: Retold is faring well among its long-time supporters. With a 92% positive user review score from approximately 3,670 advanced access players, the game is resonating with its audience. This positive feedback stands in contrast to the challenges faced by other titles, such as Dragon’s Dogma 2, which suffered from mismanaged DLC offerings despite the game’s quality.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the optics surrounding DLC and pricing strategies remain crucial. In the case of Age of Mythology: Retold, the blend of nostalgia and new content presents a complex yet intriguing scenario for both developers and players alike.