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Age of Mythology: Retold

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Age of Mythology: Retold
Item: Age of Mythology: Retold
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresStrategy, Single Player

AvailableDec 31, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperWorld's Edge

Overview

Gods will return. Heroes will rise. Legends will battle. Age of Mythology Retold is in production! We know that the Age of Mythology community has been hopefully waiting for a Definitive Edition, and we’ll be delivering. We’re working hard to bring you the glory of the original game with updated graphics, features and more.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Age of Mythology: Retold boasts an engaging narrative and rich mythological content, praised for its expansive campaigns and nostalgic elements. While critics commend the captivating storytelling enhancements, they also highlight significant flaws such as inconsistent writing, shallow character depth, and lack of coherence. Overall, it offers a nostalgic experience for fans but may disappoint newcomers seeking a deeper narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Age of Mythology: Retold has received a mixed yet generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and the rich tapestry of mythological elements it incorporates. Many reviewers, such as GamersRD and Gameliner, praised the game for its captivating campaigns that explore various mythologies, including Greek, Egyptian, and Nordic, with a focus on well-known heroes like Arkantos. Critics like Vandal and Pure Xbox noted that the game features a substantial amount of content, with campaigns that span over 50 missions, allowing players to immerse themselves in a narrative experience that is both nostalgic and expansive. Additionally, Merlin'in Kazanı highlighted the enhancements made to the original's storytelling through new cinematics and improved narrative flow, making it more engaging for players. However, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the narrative structure and depth. SpazioGames criticized the inconsistent writing and humor that detracted from the overall experience, while PC Gamer noted a lack of depth in character portrayal, which could lead to a less immersive experience. Critics like Shacknews and CD-Action echoed these sentiments, describing the campaigns as incoherent at times and lacking the impactful storytelling that many players might expect. Furthermore, Gaming Nexus mentioned that while the story is solid, the voice acting detracts from the overall experience, suggesting that the execution of the narrative could have been improved. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Age of Mythology: Retold offers a rich narrative experience filled with mythological intrigue and engaging missions, it is hampered by issues related to coherence and depth. Reviewers like Oyungezer and GameStar appreciated the blend of history and mythology, yet many echoed concerns about the story's execution, with some feeling that it does not fully live up to the original's legacy. The game is seen as a nostalgic journey for fans of the series, but the mixed reviews indicate that it may not resonate as strongly with new players or those seeking a more profound narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Age of Mythology: Retold has impressed critics by successfully merging classic RTS elements with modern enhancements, maintaining resource gathering and combat while introducing features like reusable god powers and a fifth age. Reviewers commend its engaging gameplay, diverse units, and unique civilization mechanics that appeal to both veterans and newcomers. However, concerns about repetitiveness and awkward console controls have been raised, along with AI inefficiencies. Overall, it’s viewed as a revitalized classic that offers a rich RTS experience, despite some flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Age of Mythology: Retold has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting its successful blend of classic real-time strategy (RTS) mechanics with modern enhancements. Reviewers from outlets such as Gamer.nl and Checkpoint Gaming praised the game for retaining the core elements of resource gathering, building, and combat while introducing new features like reusable god powers and a fifth age, which add depth and variety to gameplay. Critics like Gamereactor UK and PC Gamer noted that the game is engaging and dynamic, with diverse unit types and strategic options that cater to both veterans and newcomers. The introduction of unique civilization mechanics and improved user interfaces further enhances the overall experience, making it enjoyable for players who appreciate strategic depth and creativity. However, some critics did express concerns regarding certain aspects of the gameplay. PC Invasion pointed out that despite the variety of factions and gods, the gameplay can feel repetitive, as players may resort to similar strategies in matches, leading to a lack of excitement. Additionally, several reviewers, including GAMINGbible and MeuPlayStation, mentioned that while the gameplay is engaging, the controls on consoles can be awkward and clunky, which may detract from the overall experience. AI inefficiencies were also noted by SECTOR.sk, suggesting that while the gameplay is solid, there are areas that could benefit from further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Age of Mythology: Retold successfully revitalizes a beloved classic with modern improvements while maintaining its core essence. Most reviewers, including those from CD-Action and Eurogamer Germany, agree that the gameplay is engaging, with a good balance of strategy and action, making it appealing to both single-player fans and competitive players alike. Despite some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and control issues, the majority of critics believe that the game offers a rich and enjoyable RTS experience, making it a worthy addition to the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Age of Mythology: Retold dazzles with a striking visual overhaul that has earned it widespread praise for modern enhancements like ray tracing and improved animations. Critics laud its artistic direction and immersive environments that appeal to both old fans and newcomers. However, some note lingering issues like plasticky character designs and outdated visuals in certain areas. Overall, the remaster successfully modernizes the graphics while preserving nostalgic appeal, making it a standout in strategy gaming despite minor shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Age of Mythology: Retold have received widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the significant enhancements made to the game's aesthetic. Reviewers like MeuPlayStation and XGN highlighted the strong artistic direction that retains the mythological essence while utilizing modern techniques such as ray tracing and high-resolution textures. The use of the Bang Engine has been noted by multiple critics, including Multiplayer.it and Vandal, as a key factor in achieving a modern aesthetic, with improved animations and vibrant environments that enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics such as PlayStation Universe and New Game Network emphasized the detailed character models and immersive backdrops, contributing to a visually appealing experience that resonates with both veterans of the original game and newcomers alike. Despite the overall positive sentiment, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the graphical presentation. GAMINGbible and TierraGamer noted that while the graphics have improved, they still exhibit some elements of the older polygonal style, leading to characters appearing somewhat plasticky at times. Additionally, there were mentions of specific areas where the visuals felt outdated or lacked polish, particularly in close-up cinematics, as highlighted by VideoGamer and Generación Xbox. Some reviews, like that of PCGamesN, criticized the overly detailed and generic art style compared to the original's painterly quality, suggesting that the remaster, while visually improved, does not fully escape the shadows of its predecessor. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Age of Mythology: Retold successfully delivers a visually appealing experience that significantly upgrades the original graphics while maintaining its nostalgic charm. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Brasil and PC Gamer, agree that the visual overhaul enhances the gameplay, making it one of the more visually striking strategy games available today. While there are some criticisms regarding specific graphical elements and performance inconsistencies, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game has made commendable strides in modernizing its visuals, ensuring that it stands out in the current gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Age of Mythology: Retold impresses with a stunning new orchestral soundtrack, praised for its live recordings and atmospheric sound enhancements. However, critics lament the subpar voice acting and localization issues, which detract from immersion. While the music and sound effects elevate the game, inconsistent voice performances highlight areas needing improvement, creating a mixed overall reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Age of Mythology: Retold have received a generally positive reception from critics, particularly regarding the new orchestral soundtrack. Reviewers like Gameliner and PLAY! Zine praised the soundtrack for its fantastic quality, noting that it was recorded with a live symphonic orchestra, which significantly enhances the gaming experience. Critics such as CD-Action and COGconnected highlighted the addition of new sound effects and environmental audio, which enrich the overall atmosphere of the game. The ability to revert to the original sounds, as mentioned by CD-Action, also adds a layer of nostalgia for long-time fans, allowing them to experience the game in a way that honors its roots. However, the reviews also pointed out several shortcomings, particularly in the voice acting and localization aspects. Critics like Gamereactor UK and SpazioGames criticized the new voiceovers, describing them as a downgrade from the original performances, with some voices lacking emotion and depth. Issues with voice consistency and translation errors were noted by multiple reviewers, including Gamersky and IGN Spain, which detracted from the immersion that the improved sound design aimed to achieve. Additionally, some critics, such as Try Hard Guides, mentioned that certain sound quality aspects felt dated, which could impact the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the soundtrack and sound design enhancements are largely successful and contribute positively to the game's atmosphere, the voice acting and localization issues present a significant drawback. Reviewers like Atomix and New Game Network echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that although the music and sound effects elevate the experience, the inconsistencies in voice performances leave room for improvement. The combination of strong musical elements with weaker voice acting creates a mixed reception, indicating that while Age of Mythology: Retold excels in certain areas, it still has challenges to address for a fully immersive experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Age of Mythology: Retold" features praised voice acting that enhances storytelling, particularly with new language options boosting accessibility. However, critics are divided; some laud the immersive quality, while others criticize the lack of playfulness, poor accents, and absence of original voice actors. Execution issues, like audio desynchronization and inconsistent performances, have led to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Age of Mythology: Retold" has received some commendable praise from various critics. Notably, COGconnected and GamesHub highlight the extensive inclusion of voice-acted scenarios in the campaigns, which significantly enhances the storytelling experience. The addition of multiple language options, such as Latin Spanish and Portuguese, has been positively noted by Atomix and MeuPlayStation, respectively, as it adds accessibility and depth to the narrative. Critics like Impulsegamer and ZTGD have also pointed out that the re-recorded voice lines contribute positively to the overall presentation and immersion, suggesting that there are elements of the voice acting that successfully engage players in the game's lore. However, the voice acting has not been without its flaws, as many critics have pointed out various issues. Gamereactor UK and SpazioGames argue that the new voiceovers lack the playful touch and depth of the originals, making them feel more serious and less engaging. Critics like PC Gamer and Gaming Nexus emphasize that poor accents and emotional delivery detract from the overall experience, while TierraGamer raises concerns about audio desynchronization when switching between languages. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Multiplayer.it and SomosXbox, express disappointment at the absence of original voice actors, which may affect the nostalgia factor for long-time fans of the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate the new voice acting and those who find it lacking. While some, like ZTGD, praise the voice acting as top-notch and immersive, others, such as GAMINGbible and TheXboxHub, describe it as lackluster and wooden. The introduction of new languages and voice actors has been seen as a positive step, yet the execution has faced scrutiny due to issues such as inconsistent performances and translation problems. Ultimately, while "Age of Mythology: Retold" offers a fresh take on voice acting, it appears that the execution has not fully met the expectations of all critics, leading to a varied reception overall.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Age of Mythology: Retold impresses with stable performance and quality-of-life improvements on PC and Xbox Series X, earning praise for its graphics and smooth gameplay. However, critics highlight ongoing issues like pathfinding glitches, crashes, and bugs on all platforms, especially on PS5. While the remaster is generally well-received, it needs further optimization and patches to refine the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Age of Mythology: Retold has garnered a largely positive reception across various platforms. On PC, many reviewers, including CD-Action and IGN Brasil, noted that the game runs well, with stable performance and no major issues reported. Critics like Merlin'in Kazanı emphasized that the game performs admirably on modern hardware, supporting higher resolutions and maintaining stability. On Xbox Series X, the sentiment is similarly favorable, with Gaming Nexus and Generación Xbox highlighting smooth gameplay and good optimization. The game has also been praised for its quality-of-life improvements, which enhance the overall experience, as noted by Shacknews and Vgames. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out. On PC, many reviewers, including Gamereactor UK and MGG, reported persistent pathfinding issues that can disrupt gameplay. Additionally, some critics like Gamer.nl and Inverse mentioned technical problems such as crashes and audio glitches, which detract from the overall experience. On Xbox Series X, while the performance is generally stable, reviewers like Pure Xbox and XboxEra noted minor bugs, including pop-ins and occasional frame drops during intense moments. On PS5, MeuPlayStation and PlayStation Universe highlighted issues with control adaptation and load screens that can disrupt immersion, indicating that there is still room for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Age of Mythology: Retold delivers a solid technical performance across all platforms, with many praising its stability and graphical enhancements. However, the presence of minor bugs and specific issues, particularly related to pathfinding and AI, suggests that the game may require further optimization and patches to address these concerns. Critics such as Atomix and GamersRD represent the mixed feelings surrounding the performance, acknowledging both the game's strengths and its technical shortcomings. As a result, while the remaster is well-received, it is clear that ongoing support and updates will be crucial in refining the experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise Age of Mythology: Retold for its high replay value, thanks to multiple campaigns, a robust map editor, and diverse multiplayer modes. While future expansions promise to keep the game evolving, some concerns about limited civilizations and content depth suggest potential areas for improvement. Overall, it offers a compelling experience for both new and veteran players in the real-time strategy genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Age of Mythology: Retold is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its extensive content and diverse gameplay options. Reviewers from Atomix, CGMagazine, and Gameliner highlighted the game's multiple campaigns, robust map editor, and various multiplayer modes as key factors contributing to its high replayability. The inclusion of different pantheons and strategies, as noted by CD-Action and Checkpoint Gaming, allows players to explore unique gameplay dynamics, further enhancing the experience. Additionally, the promise of future expansions and downloadable content, as mentioned by critics like PLAY! Zine and GamersRD, suggests that the game will continue to evolve, keeping players engaged for longer periods. However, some critics did express concerns regarding certain aspects of replayability. For instance, MGG pointed out that the limited number of civilizations might affect long-term engagement, while Shacknews questioned the structural improvements necessary for sustained interest. Additionally, a few reviewers, including SpazioGames, noted that while the game offers a good amount of content, it may not match the extensive additional content seen in other titles like Age of Empires II. This indicates that while the game is rich in replay value, there are elements that could be improved to enhance longevity further. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Age of Mythology: Retold offers a strong replay value, appealing to both newcomers and veterans of the genre. The combination of multiple campaigns, customizable skirmishes, and engaging multiplayer options, as highlighted by critics like IGN Italia and PCGamesN, creates a compelling package for players. Despite some criticisms regarding the depth of content and potential repetitiveness, the majority of reviewers agree that the game provides ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of real-time strategy games.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding "Age of Mythology: Retold" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its successful modernization of a beloved classic. Reviewers like Shacknews and GAMES.CH highlight significant visual improvements and engaging content that appeals to both nostalgic fans and newcomers. Critics such as PC Gamer and GameStar emphasize the game's balance of nostalgia with modern gameplay enhancements, noting that it successfully brings back one of the best campaigns in the genre. Additionally, the remaster is seen as a well-crafted experience that retains the core essence of the original while introducing new features, as noted by Multiplayer.it and CGMagazine. Overall, the game is celebrated for its fun and engaging gameplay, making it a strong recommendation for fans of the strategy genre. However, some reviewers have raised concerns regarding the lack of substantial new content beyond graphical enhancements. Critics like MGG and Shacknews question the necessity of this remaster when compared to newer titles, suggesting that it may not offer enough innovation to stand out in the current market. Additionally, IGN Brasil points out potential monetization issues that could lead to a pay-to-win atmosphere, which may deter some players. Other critiques include repetitive strategies and a lack of depth in story and voice acting, as mentioned by SpazioGames and PC Invasion. These concerns highlight some shortcomings that could affect the overall experience for certain players. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus among critics is that "Age of Mythology: Retold" is a successful remaster that resonates well with its audience. The majority of reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and Gaming Nexus, affirm that the game successfully modernizes the original while preserving its charm, making it enjoyable for both veterans and newcomers. Critics like Gamer.nl and VideoGamer echo this sentiment, emphasizing the game's engaging gameplay and rich single-player experience. While there are valid criticisms regarding content depth and innovation, the positive reception underscores that "Age of Mythology: Retold" is a worthwhile investment for strategy game enthusiasts, solidifying its status as a commendable entry in the RTS genre.

TL;DR

"Age of Mythology: Retold" receives mostly positive reviews for its successful modernization of the classic game, with impressive visuals and nostalgic gameplay that appeal to both fans and newcomers. Critics praise its engaging content and well-crafted experience, though some express concerns over minimal new content, potential monetization issues, and repetitive strategies. Despite these critiques, it stands out as a strong recommendation for strategy enthusiasts, maintaining the original's charm while offering a compelling single-player experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

103 reviews found

100

Impulsegamer

Aug 28, 2024