Microsoft still hasn't given Age of Empires Online a specific date, but they have been kind enough to narrow down the game's release window a bit further. The Gas Powered Games-developed massively multiplayer online real time strategy game has now been fitted into the fall season. Much better than the vague 2011 window. Microsoft has also promised RTS fans that a more specific release date will be announced by the end of the month.

Age of Empires Online retains much of the series' trademark RTS gameplay, although this time there's a persistent city that functions even when a player is offline. Co-op is also supported in the form of multiplayer quests. Here's a look at the game's features:

• Familiar “Age” elements. “Age of Empires Online” stays true to its roots with traditional RTS gameplay, a deep player-versus-player mode and detailed historical settings. From the creation of your capital city to resource management and competitive matches, “Age of Empires” fans will feel right at home.
• A living online civilization. Using your online capital city as home base, embark on quests alone or with a friend, earn rewards, and evolve your civilization from village to empire. Your empire continues to grow and accrue resources even when you aren’t online.
• A new look and feel. “Age of Empires Online” brings a new, stylized art scheme and an unprecedented level of detail to PC gameplay, approachable and fun, “Age of Empires Online” lets you progress at your own pace and invites players at any experience level to login and discover the world of RTS gaming.
• Free-to-play. Download “Age of Empires Online” free from almost anywhere and enjoy hours of gameplay with the starter Greek and Egyptian civilizations. Build your online capital city, embark on quests, level up, and explore the world of “Age of Empires Online” without paying a cent!
• Deep selection of premium content. As your empire grows, so too does “Age of Empires Online,” with frequently released new content designed to keep the experience fresh. From new quests and regions to entirely new civilizations, “Age of Empires Online” is always evolving so you can choose the content that’s right for you and your budget.
• Better with Games for Windows — LIVE. “Age of Empires Online” was built with Games for Windows — LIVE at its core, delivering a truly connected experience that includes achievements, a common gamertag, gamerscore and a unified friends list. With free competitive and cooperative gameplay, including co-op quests and trading, “Age of Empires Online” integrates with Games for Windows — LIVE to make your friends and friendly rivals a seamless part of the experience.

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