The mobile port of the PC version of Age of Empires is somehow getting its own PC port, sparking reactions from the community — “Have we all lost our minds?”

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I have really fond memories of playing *Age of Empires* as a kid. I remember spending hours and hours clicking away at the old CRT monitor, trying to defend my city and people from endless waves of enemies.

I’ve always been a big fan of the *Age of Empires* games, and I was thrilled when they announced remasters of the original *Age of Empires*, *Age of Empires II*, and *Age of Empires III*. It was also fantastic to see *Age of Mythology* get a really well-received remaster as well.

Following the successful release of updated versions of the game, *Age of Empires Mobile* became available on both iPhones and Android phones on October 17, 2024.

Age of Empires Mobile, created by TiMi Studio Group – the team behind popular mobile games like Call of Duty: Mobile, Honor of Kings, and Pokémon UNITE – and with support from World’s Edge (Microsoft’s Age of Empires team), has already been downloaded over 5 million times on Google Play.

The Age of Empires team has announced that Age of Empires Mobile will be released on PC in early 2026. It might sound a little strange – a mobile game based on a PC game getting its own PC version! – but it’s happening. This new version will be called Age of Empires Mobile: PC Edition. Here’s what the official announcement said:

The game is now available on PC with improved controls for mouse and keyboard, a better user interface, and stunning 4K graphics. Plus, a seamless crossplay feature lets you continue your progress on any device – phone, tablet, or PC – without interruption.

AoE Official

As a researcher following this game’s development, I’m excited to share that it’s currently slated for release on PC in early 2026. It will be available through the PC Xbox app and Steam, and subscribers to PC Game Pass will have access to it right away. The promotional materials, including a visually stunning new trailer, also indicate that the game will be part of the Xbox Play Anywhere program.

To be honest, I haven’t really followed the mobile game closely. From what I’ve seen, it seems fairly typical for mobile real-time strategy games, though it does have some elements that remind me of the *Age* series. I’d recommend giving it a look and forming your own opinion.

Given the huge popularity of Xbox games on phones, it’s clear they’re trying to draw in PC gamers who are looking for a simpler way to enjoy the *Age* series.

Don’t worry that bringing this game to mobile will take resources away from new content for PC gamers. There’s plenty of other content already planned for the main games, and this mobile version is just one part of a larger plan.

The Age community reacts to the new PC port of the mobile version

Age of Empires Mobile has mixed reviews, with a 4.2-star rating on Google Play and a lower 3.6 stars on the App Store. Reviews have been generally negative; while we at Windows Central haven’t reviewed it, Android Authority called it surprisingly bad, and Digital Trends labeled it one of the worst mobile spin-offs available.

This game is similar to those where you collect characters or items, but instead you gather resources, develop a city, and strengthen your army. It’s different from traditional *Age of Empires* because it plays mostly on its own – building happens automatically, and battles are largely automated. I doubt it will appeal to serious *Age of Empires* fans looking for a hands-on experience.

The announcement trailer for *Age of Empires Mobile: PC Edition* has gained almost 5,000 views in the last nineteen hours, though it’s only received 113 likes so far.

The most popular comment currently says, “Seriously, what’s the point? There’s already a great version of Age of Empires on computers.”

The reaction on the Xbox subreddit was mostly humorous. One user jokingly pointed out that this is essentially the PC version of a mobile game originally made for PC, and another asked if people were being serious about it.

FAQ

What is Age of Empires Mobile: PC Edition?

Age of Empires Mobile: PC Edition brings the mobile version of the classic Age of Empires series to computers. This allows players to enjoy the game on both mobile devices and PCs.

When does Age of Empires Mobile: PC Edition launch?

The mobile version of *Age of Empires*, designed for PC, is planned to be released around early 2026. You can add it to your wishlist on Steam today, or find more information at the Microsoft Store.

Is Age of Empires Mobile: PC Edition free to play?

You can download and play *Age of Empires Mobile: PC Edition* for free on any device. Keep in mind it’s designed for mobile, so it includes optional in-app purchases.

Is Age of Empires Mobile: PC Edition also coming to Xbox?

While it’s not confirmed yet, the Xbox Play Anywhere logo in the preview hints that the game will likely be playable on Xbox consoles, the cloud, and PC at some point.

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2025-12-10 17:40