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Difference between revisions of "Age of Empires III"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
m (Robot: Cosmetic changes)
 
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−
{{infobox
+
{{disambig|the original release|the Definitive Edition|[[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition]]}}
−
|title          = Age of Empires III
+
{{Infobox game
−
|cover         = AOE3_Boxart.jpeg
+
|cover       = AOE3_Boxart.jpeg
−
|developer     = [[Wikipedia:Ensemble Studios|Ensemble Studios]]
+
|developers  =
−
|publisher     = Microsoft Game Studios
+
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Ensemble Studios}}
−
|engine         = Modified BANG! engine
+
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Big Huge Games|The Asian Dynasties}}
−
|release dates = October 18, 2005
+
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Robot Entertainment|Last patch set<ref>Shown in the latest patch changelogs. Worth noting is that the company was founded by some former Ensemble Studios staff immediately after its closure.</ref>}}
−
|steam         = 105450
+
{{Infobox game/row/porter|Westlake Interactive|OS X}}
−
|gog            =
+
|publishers  =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Microsoft Game Studios}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Ubisoft|Re-releases}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|MacSoft|OS X}}
 +
|reception    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|age-of-empires-iii|81}}
 +
|engines      =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/engine|BANG!}}
 +
|release dates=  
 +
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|October 18, 2005}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|September 29, 2006}}
 +
|taxonomy=
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase, Expansion pack }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | None}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Real-time }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives      | Bird's-eye view }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Multiple select, Point and select }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | RTS }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports            | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes            | Asia, North America, South America }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series            | Age of Empires }}
 +
|official site= https://web.archive.org/web/20081216014029/http://www.agecommunity.com/
 +
|steam appid  = 105450
 +
|gogcom id    =
 +
|hltb        = 270
 +
|lutris      = age-of-empires-iii-complete-collection
 +
|strategywiki = Age of Empires III
 +
|mobygames    = 20055
 +
|wikipedia    = Age of Empires III
 +
|winehq      = 2441
 +
|license      = commercial
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
{{infobox
+
{{Introduction
−
|title          = Age of Empires III: The WarChiefs
+
|introduction      =  
−
|cover          = AoE3_WarChiefs_Box.jpg
+
 
−
|developer      = [[Wikipedia:Ensemble Studios|Ensemble Studios]]
+
|release history  = After its release, the game received '''''The War Chiefs''''' expansion in October 2006 and '''''The Asian Dynasties''''' in October 2007 (the latter by [[Company:Big Huge Games|Big Huge Games]]), with new civilizations, campaigns and mechanics. The latest [[#Patches|official patches]] developed by [[Company:Robot Entertainment|Robot Entertainment]] (founded by some of the ex-Ensemble staff after its closure) also removed the {{Removed DRM|SmarteSECURE}}, leaving only a serial key requirement.
−
|publisher      = Microsoft Game Studios
 
−
|engine        = Modified BANG! engine
 
−
|release dates  = October 17, 2006
 
−
|steam          = 105450
 
−
|gog            =
 
−
}}
 
  
−
{{infobox
+
|current state    = The game runs stable on modern systems. ''Age of Empires III'' is the only Ensemble-era game in the series with official servers still online, but as of 2021 an [[#Patches|official patch]] is required to change the domain lookup as Microsoft no longer controls the original domain. These servers are no longer actively supported and account loss can not be remedied. The [https://eso-community.net/ ESOCommunity] fansite maintained interest in this iteration of the game with its [[#Unofficial patches|community patch]] until the release of the ''[[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition|Definitive Edition]]'', which has replaced the original in competitive play, and with ESOCommunity retaining its position as a community hub and frequent event host.
−
|title          = Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties
 
−
|cover          = AoE3_Asian_Dynasties_Box.jpg
 
−
|developer      = [[Wikipedia:Ensemble Studios|Ensemble Studios]]
 
−
|publisher      = Microsoft Game Studios
 
−
|engine        = Modified BANG! engine
 
−
|release dates  = October 23, 2007
 
−
|steam          = 105450
 
−
|gog            =
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
== Availability ==
+
'''General information'''
−
The best value for money is the Complete Collection, which contains:
+
{{mm}} [https://www.ageofempires.com/ Official website] for the series
−
* Age of Empires III
+
{{mm}} [https://discordapp.com/invite/ageofempires Official Discord server] for the series
−
* Age of Empires III: The WarChiefs
+
{{mm}} [https://ageofempires.fandom.com/wiki/Age_of_Empires_Series_Wiki Age of Empires Wiki]
−
* Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties
+
{{mm}} [https://support.ageofempires.com/hc/en-us/sections/4836889314196-Age-of-Empires-III-2007- Official support knowledgebase]
 +
{{mm}} [https://eso-community.net/ ESOCommunity] home to the ESOC Patch and the competitive multiplayer community
 +
{{mm}} [http://aoe3.heavengames.com/ HeavenGames.com] Large file database with lots of custom content
 +
{{mm}} [http://www.rts-sanctuary.com/index.php?portal=TAD&showforum=43 RTS-Sanctuary.com] File database with many game replays
 +
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/105450/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
  
−
{{Availability Table|
+
==Availability==
−
{{Availability Table/row| Retail | {{ID|}} | Only way to purchase game and expansions individually.}}
+
{{Availability|
−
{{Availability Table/row| [http://store.steampowered.com/app/105450/ Steam] | {{ID|Steam}} | Optimized for Windows 7 compatibility.}}
+
{{Availability/row| Retail | | Disc, Key | {{Removed DRM|SmarteSECURE}} - removed in [[#Patches|latest patches (1.14/1.06/1.03)]]. | |Windows, OS X}}
−
{{Availability Table/row| [http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Age-of-Empires-III/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d8044d530936 GFWL] | {{ID|GFWL}} | None}}
+
{{Availability/row| Humble | age-of-empires-iii-complete-collection | Steam | Complete Collection. | | Windows}}
−
{{Availability Table/row| [http://www.impulsedriven.com/aoe3c Impulse] | {{ID|}} | None}}
+
{{Availability/row| Steam | 105450 | key | Complete Collection. Steam DRM check is present only on first launch while the serial key for the entire collection is applied to the registry; the game can be run without Steam afterwards by launching from any of the executables.<ref name="AoE3Steam">{{Refcheck|user=Plok|date=21 November 2022}}</ref><br>Renamed to '''Age of Empires III (2007)'''{{note|2007 being the release date of The Asian Dynasties, not the original Age of Empires III.}} on October 15, 2020 due to the release of the [[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition|Definitive Edition]]. | | Windows }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Amazon | B00AR05D78 | Steam | Non-Steam version also available. | | Windows | unavailable }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Games for Windows Marketplace | GFWL | GFWL | Was marketed as ''Age of Empires Complete Edition'', for unknown reasons.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/games-for-windows-marketplace-launches-nov-15/1100-6282798/|title=Games for Windows Marketplace launches Nov. 15|date=19 August 2022}}</ref> | | Windows | unavailable }}
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{ii}} Online features require an Ensemble Studios Online (ESO) Account (registered in-game).
 +
{{++}} Retail CD keys for the Complete Edition can be activated on Steam (US version only).<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=7480-wusf-3601|title=Retail / Digital CD Keys - CD-Key - Knowledge Base - Steam Support|date=May 2023}}</ref>
 +
{{ii}} Free demo versions are available from GameFront: [https://www.gamefront.com/games/age-of-empires-iii/file/aoe3-trial-demo-1-1-reviewed base game (Windows)], [https://www.gamefront.com/games/age-of-empires-iii/file/age-of-empires-iii-mac-demo-1-0 base game (OS X)] [https://www.gamefront.com/games/age-of-empires-iii-the-warchiefs/file/age-of-empires-iii-the-warchiefs-trial-version The War Chiefs], [https://www.gamefront.com/games/age-of-empires-iii-the-asian-dynasties/file/age-of-empires-iii-the-asian-dynasties-trial-version The Asian Dynasties].
  
−
It is worth noting that no non-Steam versions can be activated on Steam.
+
===Version differences===
 +
{{ii}} The '''Gold Edition''' is includes the base game and The War Chiefs expansion pack.
 +
{{ii}} The '''Complete Collection''' is includes the base game and both expansion packs. It is the only digital release.
  
−
== Patches ==
+
==Monetization==
−
{|class="wikitable" margin: 10px;"
+
{{Monetization
−
!Game Version
+
|ad-supported          =  
−
!Patch Version
+
|dlc                    =
−
!Download
+
|expansion pack        = The expansion packs include new civilizations, units, mechanics and campaigns.
−
|-
+
|freeware              =
−
| Age of Empires III || 1.14 || [http://www.agecommunity.com/gameUpdates.aspx Official Site]
+
|free-to-play          =
−
|-
+
|one-time game purchase = The game requires an upfront purchase to access.
−
| The Warchiefs || 1.06|| [http://www.agecommunity.com/gameUpdates_xp.aspx Official Site]
+
|sponsored              =
−
|-
+
|subscription          =
−
| The Asian Dynasties || 1.03 || [http://www.agecommunity.com/ypatch1_01.aspx Official Site]
+
}}
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
The latest patches can be downloaded either from the links above, or by connection to ESO in-game.
 
−
 
 
−
The patches linked above will download and install much faster than the in-game updater, and more reliably.
 
  
−
== Game Path ==
+
{{DLC|
−
The game's default installation depends on how you purchased it.
+
{{DLC/row| The WarChiefs | Added 8 maps, 3 civilizations, 2 plot acts, warchief units, revolutions and stealth. | Windows, OS X }}
−
{{Game Location Table|
+
{{DLC/row| The Asian Dynasties | Added 3 Asian Civilizations, each one with a campaign, wonder and the new export resource. As well as 6 new native civilizations. | Windows, OS X }}
−
{{Game Location Table/row|Retail|C:\%ProgramFiles%\Microsoft Games\Age of Empires III\}}
 
−
{{Game Location Table/row|GFWL|C:\%ProgramFiles%\Microsoft Games\Age of Empires III\}}
 
−
{{Game Location Table/row|Steam|C:\%Program Files%\Steam\steamapps\common\Age Of Empires 3\bin\}}
 
−
{{Game Location Table/row|Impulse|C:\%Program Files%\Microsoft Game Studios\Age of Empires III - Complete Collection\}}  
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
== Save Games ==
+
==Essential improvements==
−
Note: Save Games, Recorded Games, and Home City files all save in the following location.
+
===Skip intro videos===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Use the <code>+noIntroCinematics</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]]|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://aoe3.heavengames.com/cgi-bin/forums/display.cgi?action=ct&f=1,33864,3840,all|title=No Intro Cinematics - Age of Empires III Heaven Forum|date=2024-03-31}}</ref>}}
  
−
=== Save Game Location ===
+
===Patches===
−
<pre>C:\Users\%USERNAME%\Documents\My Games\Age of Empires 3\Savegame\</pre>
+
{{ii}} The latest official patch for the base game is [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1131-age-of-empires-iii-patch/ v1.14]
 +
{{ii}} The latest official patch for The Warchiefs expansion is [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1132-age-of-empires-iii-the-warchiefs-patch/ v1.06]
 +
{{ii}} The latest official patch for The Asian Dynasties expansion is [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1133-age-of-empires-iii-the-asian-dynasties-patch/ v1.03]
 +
{{ii}} For macOS (OS X), see the [https://web.archive.org/web/20150721042154/http://destineergames.com/support/?page_id=88 archived patch page]
 +
{{ii}} The Windows patches are also available from [https://support.ageofempires.com/hc/en-us/articles/4896220454292-Last-patch-versions the official support knowledge base].
 +
{{ii}} As of 2021, an [https://support.ageofempires.com/hc/en-us/articles/360048534212-Age-of-Empires-III-CC-ESO-Patch official patch] is available for fixing a connection issue caused by the official ESO multiplayer server domain change. Note that it causes an version mismatch with players who do not have it installed.
  
−
=== [[Save Folder Cloud Syncing|Save Game Cloud Syncing]] ===
+
===Unofficial patches===
−
* Dropbox: Yes
+
{{ii}} The unofficial [https://eso-community.net/esoc-patch.php ESOCommunity (ESOC) patch] for The Asian Dynasties includes a wide range of balance changes and bug fixes, as well as additional maps for skirmish and multiplayer. Its development ended after the release of the [[Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition|Definitive Edition]], but its balance changes were used as a reference for this edition's balancing at launch.
−
* Windows Live Mesh 2011: Yes
 
−
* GameSave Manager: Yes
 
  
−
== Common Issues ==
+
==Game data==
 +
{{Image|Age of Empires III General.png|In-game general settings.}}
 +
{{Image|Age of Empires III UI.png|In-game UI settings. The "Enable IME" option under "Regional" is not shown.}}
  
−
=== Failed to Join ===
+
===Configuration file(s) location===
−
This is the most common error suffered with Age of Empires III multiplayer.
+
{{Game data|
 +
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\My Games\Age of Empires 3\Users\}}
 +
{{Game data/config|OS X|{{p|osxhome}}/Documents/Age of Empires III/Users/}}
 +
}}
  
−
This error can be caused by many problems, and consequently, there are many methods to try to repair it.
+
===Save game data location===
 +
{{Game data|
 +
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\My Games\Age of Empires 3\Savegame\}}
 +
{{Game data/saves|OS X|{{p|osxhome}}/Documents/Age of Empires III/Savegame/}}
 +
}}
  
−
After each numbered step, attempt connecting to several games in multiplayer; only proceed to the next if you are still experiencing issues.
+
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 +
{{Save game cloud syncing
 +
|discord                  =
 +
|discord notes            =
 +
|epic games launcher      =
 +
|epic games launcher notes =
 +
|gog galaxy                =
 +
|gog galaxy notes          =
 +
|origin                    =
 +
|origin notes              =
 +
|steam cloud              = false
 +
|steam cloud notes        = Homecities can be saved on the official ESO multiplayer platform (effectively in a cloud).
 +
|ubisoft connect          =
 +
|ubisoft connect notes    =
 +
|xbox cloud                =
 +
|xbox cloud notes          =
 +
}}
  
−
1. Try power cycling your network hardware.
+
==Video==
 +
{{Image|Age of Empires III Video 1.png|In-game video settings (1/2).}}
 +
{{Image|Age of Empires III Video 2.png|In-game video settings (2/2).}}
 +
{{Video
 +
|wsgf link                  = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/age-empires-iii
 +
|widescreen wsgf award      = silver
 +
|multimonitor wsgf award    = silver
 +
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = incomplete
 +
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = incomplete
 +
|widescreen resolution      = true
 +
|widescreen resolution notes=
 +
|multimonitor              = true
 +
|multimonitor notes        =
 +
|ultrawidescreen            = true
 +
|ultrawidescreen notes      = HUD is partially stretched.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-JatP_vELE|title=Age Of Empire III 21:9 Review (2560x1080) (60fps) (Ultrawide) - YouTube|date=May 2023}}</ref>
 +
|4k ultra hd                = true
 +
|4k ultra hd notes          = Some in-game texts becomes small.
 +
|fov                        = n/a
 +
|fov notes                  =
 +
|windowed                  = true
 +
|windowed notes            =
 +
|borderless windowed        = true
 +
|borderless windowed notes  = Game has no borders at max resolution when in windowed mode.
 +
|anisotropic                = true
 +
|anisotropic notes          =
 +
|antialiasing              = true
 +
|antialiasing notes        =
 +
|upscaling                  = unknown
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 +
|vsync                      = true
 +
|vsync notes                =
 +
|60 fps                    = true
 +
|60 fps notes              =
 +
|120 fps                    = true
 +
|120 fps notes              =
 +
|hdr                        = unknown
 +
|hdr notes                  =
 +
|color blind                = unknown
 +
|color blind notes          =
 +
}}
  
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
==Input==
−
{{Fixbox/instructions|Power Cycling}}
+
{{Image|Age of Empires III Remapping.png|In-game key map settings.}}
−
a. Turn off your modem, router, and PC.
+
{{Input
 +
|key remap                = true
 +
|key remap notes          =
 +
|acceleration option      = false
 +
|acceleration option notes =
 +
|mouse sensitivity        = true
 +
|mouse sensitivity notes  = For scroll speed.
 +
|mouse menu                = true
 +
|mouse menu notes          =
 +
|invert mouse y-axis      = false
 +
|invert mouse y-axis notes =
 +
|touchscreen              = unknown
 +
|touchscreen notes        =
 +
|controller support        = false
 +
|controller support notes  =
 +
|full controller          = unknown
 +
|full controller notes    =
 +
|controller remap          = unknown
 +
|controller remap notes    =
 +
|controller sensitivity    = unknown
 +
|controller sensitivity notes=
 +
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 +
|invert controller y-axis notes=
 +
|xinput controllers        = unknown
 +
|xinput controllers notes  =
 +
|xbox prompts              = unknown
 +
|xbox prompts notes        =
 +
|impulse triggers          = unknown
 +
|impulse triggers notes    =
 +
|dualshock 4              = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 notes        =
 +
|dualshock prompts        = unknown
 +
|dualshock prompts notes  =
 +
|light bar support        = unknown
 +
|light bar support notes  =
 +
|dualshock 4 modes        = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 modes notes  =
 +
|tracked motion controllers= unknown
 +
|tracked motion controllers notes =
 +
|tracked motion prompts    = unknown
 +
|tracked motion prompts notes =
 +
|other controllers        = unknown
 +
|other controllers notes  =
 +
|other button prompts      = unknown
 +
|other button prompts notes=
 +
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 +
|controller hotplug notes  =
 +
|haptic feedback          = unknown
 +
|haptic feedback notes    =
 +
|simultaneous input        = unknown
 +
|simultaneous input notes  =
 +
|steam input api          = unknown
 +
|steam input api notes    =
 +
|steam hook input          = unknown
 +
|steam hook input notes    =
 +
|steam input presets      = unknown
 +
|steam input presets notes =
 +
|steam controller prompts  = unknown
 +
|steam controller prompts notes =
 +
|steam cursor detection    = unknown
 +
|steam cursor detection notes =
 +
}}
  
−
b. Wait a few minutes.
+
==Audio==
−
c. Turn them back on in the listed order.
+
{{Image|Age of Empires III Audio.png|In-game audio settings.}}
 +
{{Audio
 +
|separate volume          = true
 +
|separate volume notes    =
 +
|surround sound          = false
 +
|surround sound notes    = Stereo only.<ref>[http://aoe3.heavengames.com/cgi-bin/forums/display.cgi?action=ct&f=11,25842 How do I enable surround sound? - Age of Empires III Heaven Forum]</ref>
 +
|subtitles                = true
 +
|subtitles notes          =
 +
|closed captions          = false
 +
|closed captions notes    =
 +
|mute on focus lost      = always on
 +
|mute on focus lost notes =
 +
|eax support              =
 +
|eax support notes        =
 +
|royalty free audio      = always on
 +
|royalty free audio notes =
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
2. Ensure Age of Empires III and its expansions (age3.exe, age3x.exe, age3y.exe) are listed on your firewall's exception lists; try playing with the firewall in Gaming Mode, Low, and Off.  
+
{{L10n|content=
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = English
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = French
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = German
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Hungarian
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|notes    = A fan translation by kds: [https://magyaritasok.hu/magyaritasok/age-of-empires-3/age-of-empires-3/547 base game], [https://magyaritasok.hu/magyaritasok/age-of-empires-3/age-of-empires-3-videok/2153 videos], [https://magyaritasok.hu/magyaritasok/age-of-empires-3-the-warchiefs/age-of-empires-3-the-warchiefs/735 The WarChiefs], [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1787-age-of-empires-iii-complete-edition-hungarian-translation/ Complete Edition]
 +
|fan      = true
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Italian
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Korean
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Polish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Retail only.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Brazilian Portuguese
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Retail only.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Spanish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
}}
  
−
3. If you connect to the internet wirelessly, try a wired connection.
+
==Network==
 +
{{ii}} Online features require an ESO Account (registered in-game).
 +
{{Network/Multiplayer
 +
|local play          =
 +
|local play players  =
 +
|local play modes    =
 +
|local play notes    =
 +
|lan play            = true
 +
|lan play players    = 8
 +
|lan play modes      =
 +
|lan play notes      =
 +
|online play          = true
 +
|online play players  = 8
 +
|online play modes    =
 +
|online play notes    =
 +
|asynchronous        =
 +
|asynchronous notes  =
 +
}}
  
−
4. Toggle UPnP on or off.
+
{{Network/Connections
 +
|matchmaking        = true
 +
|matchmaking notes  =
 +
|p2p                = true
 +
|p2p notes          =
 +
|dedicated          = false
 +
|dedicated notes    =
 +
|self-hosting      = true
 +
|self-hosting notes =
 +
|direct ip          = true
 +
|direct ip notes    = Enter in-game or use <code>OverrideAddress=</code> and <code>hostPort=</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|parameters]].<ref name="override">[http://aoe3.heavengames.com/cgi-bin/forums/display.cgi?action=st&fn=1&tn=27047&st=15#post16 Direct IP? Is it working? - Age of Empires III Heaven Forum]</ref>
 +
}}
  
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Network/Ports
−
{{Fixbox/instructions|Toggling UPnP}}
+
|tcp  = 80, 2300
−
a. Connect to your router in your browser; usually, this is done by typing 192.168.1.1 into your address bar. If that IP does not connect to your router, see your router's manual or try Googling your router brand and model.
+
|udp  = 2300-2310
 +
|upnp = true
 +
}}
  
−
b. Your router will prompt for your username and password. Often, this is "admin" and "admin" or "admin" and "password". See your router's manual or try Googling your router brand and model with "default password" if those don't work.
+
==VR support==
−
c. Find and Toggle On or Off (set it to whatever it wasn't before) UPnP. You may have to search around for this setting, or consult your manual. My router has it in Advanced: Advanced Setup: UPnP.  
+
{{VR support
 +
|gg3d name                  =
 +
|native 3d gg3d award        =
 +
|nvidia 3d vision gg3d award =
 +
|tridef 3d gg3d award        =
 +
|iz3d gg3d award            =
 +
|native 3d                  =
 +
|native 3d notes            =
 +
|nvidia 3d vision            =
 +
|nvidia 3d vision notes      =
 +
|tridef 3d                  =
 +
|tridef 3d notes            =
 +
|iz3d                        =
 +
|iz3d notes                  =
 +
|vorpx                      = hackable
 +
|vorpx modes                = G3D
 +
|vorpx notes                = User created game profile (Complete Collection); see [https://www.vorpx.com/forums/topic/age-of-empires-3-complete/ vorpx forum] profile introduction.
 +
|htc vive                    =
 +
|htc vive notes              =
 +
|oculus rift                =
 +
|oculus rift notes          =
 +
|osvr                        =
 +
|osvr notes                  =
 +
|windows mixed reality      =
 +
|windows mixed reality notes =
 +
|keyboard-mouse              =
 +
|keyboard-mouse notes        =
 +
|3rd space gaming vest      =
 +
|3rd space gaming vest notes =
 +
|novint falcon              =
 +
|novint falcon notes        =
 +
|trackir                    =
 +
|trackir notes              =
 +
|tobii eye tracking          =
 +
|tobii eye tracking notes    =
 +
|play area seated            =
 +
|play area seated notes      =
 +
|play area standing          =
 +
|play area standing notes    =
 +
|play area room-scale        =
 +
|play area room-scale notes  =
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
5. Try updating your router's firmware.
+
==Issues fixed==
 +
===Game crashes on startup===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Run the game as administrator and/or in [[Windows Compatibility Mode|compatibility mode]] for Windows XP SP2|fix=
 +
}}
  
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
==="MSXML4.0 is not installed correctly" on startup===
−
{{Fixbox/instructions|Updating a Router}}
+
{{Fixbox|description=Reinstall MSXML 4.0. Use the installer on the disc, the {{file|{{p|game}}\msxml|folder}} subdirectory on Steam, or [https://web.archive.org/web/20210328145444/https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=15697 official download]|ref=|fix=
−
a. Connect to your router as explained in steps 4a and 4b.
 
  
−
b. If prompted for an update somewhere, tell it to update!
+
{{ii}} This error may appear as a blank error message/dialog box, with no text and just an error icon.  
−
c. Hunt around for a check for updates button, or consult your router's manual.  
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
6. Try Port Forwarding UDP and TCP ports 80, 2300-2310 to your device.
+
===ESO servers inaccessible===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Apply the official ESO patch|fix=
 +
As of September 1, 2021, Microsoft no longer owns the eso.com domain. To make sure the multiplayer mode of Age of Empires III points to a backend that is under their control, they have released [https://aoe.ms/AgeIIIEsoPatch a patch] (requires the latest retail patch or the Steam version).<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://support.ageofempires.com/hc/en-us/articles/360048534212|title=Age of Empires III: CC ESO Patch - Age of Empires Support|date=2022-11-26}}</ref>
  
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
Note that this patch causes a version mismatch with players who do not have it installed.
−
{{Fixbox/instructions|Port Forwarding}}
 
−
a. Identify your router brand and model.
 
−
 
 
−
b. Go to [http://portforward.com/ PortForward.com] and select your router brand and model, and click search.
 
−
c. Select Age of Empires III and follow the steps given.
 
−
d. You can use a site like [http://www.canyouseeme.org/ CanYouSeeMe] to ensure you have correctly opened the ports. CanYouSeeMe will only see a port if there is a server currently running on it.  
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
7. Try Port Forwarding UDP and TCP 80, 2300-2340 to your device. Note the larger range of ports than step #6.
+
===ESO account support===
 +
{{ii}} Problems with ESO accounts like lost passwords are handled through the [https://esoaccounts.agecommunity.com/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fAccountManagement%2fDefault.aspx Account Management Tool] on the official site.
  
−
=== Game Crashes on Startup/Doesn't Start ===
+
{{--}} Microsoft and associated parties are unable to provide support for these accounts,<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://support.ageofempires.com/hc/en-us/articles/4620605134100-FAQ-ESO-and-Multiplayer|title=FAQ - ESO and Multiplayer - Age of Empires Support|date=2022-11-26}}</ref> despite reports of stolen or otherwise inaccessible accounts over the years.<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://aoe3.heavengames.com/cgi-bin/forums/display.cgi?action=ct&f=1,33349,5520,all|title=Stolen account!!! - Age of Empires III Heaven Forum|date=2022-11-26}}</ref> <ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/aoe3/comments/fkdapy/my_account_back/|title=My Account Back : aoe3|date=2022-11-26}}</ref>
−
An error that usually occurs on Windows 7.
 
  
−
After each numbered step, attempt running the game; only proceed to the next if you are still experiencing issues.
+
===Failed to join in multiplayer===
 +
This is the most common error suffered with Age of Empires III multiplayer.
 +
This error can be caused by many problems, and consequently, there are many methods to try to repair it.
 +
After each of the numbered solutions, attempt connecting to several games in multiplayer; only proceed to the next if you are still experiencing issues.
  
−
1. Ensure the game is Running as Administrator.
+
{{Fixbox|description=1. Allow ESO server more time to load|fix=
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{ii}} This solution needs to be done on each login.
−
{{Fixbox/instructions|Run as Administrator}}
+
# Log in to ESO.
−
a. Right click on your desktop icon, and select "Properties".
+
# Stay on the home page and wait about 10 minutes. Do not whisper to friends, check clan info, or go to any other tab.
−
b. Go to the compatibility tab and select "Run this program as administrator", and select "OK".
+
# After 10 minutes, the problem may now be fixed. The Home Page can now be left.
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
2. Try running the game in compatibility mode.
+
{{Fixbox|description=2. Try power cycling network hardware|fix=
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
# Turn off the modem, router, and PC.
−
{{Fixbox/instructions|Run in Compatibility Mode}}
+
# Wait a few minutes.
−
a. Right click on your desktop icon, and select "Properties".
+
# Turn them back on in the listed order.
−
b. Go to the compatibility tab and select "Run this program in compatibility mode for:". Try all the OS options in the list. Oddly, some users report "Windows Vista (SP3)" option repairing it.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
== Communities & Support ==
+
{{Fixbox|description=3. Ensure the game executables are listed in the firewall's exception list|fix=
−
=== Account Support ===
+
}}
−
Problems with ESO Accounts should be first solved with the [https://esoaccounts.agecommunity.com/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fAccountManagement%2fDefault.aspx Account Management Tool] on the official site.
 
  
−
Further account problems should send an email to age3support@microsoft.com. In an email there, provide the following information (or all of it that you have):
+
{{Fixbox|description=4. Switch from wireless Internet connection to a wired one (if applicable)|fix=
−
* Account Username
+
}}
−
* Associated Email Address
 
−
* CD Key - The Key on the yellow sticker in your box. Ensure this is your Age of Empires III Key, and not the Key for one of the expansions. Format: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
 
−
* Product ID - Ensure this is your Age of Empires III ID, and not the ID for one of the expansions. Found from the Main Menu -> Help and Tools -> About. Format: XXXXX-XXX-XXXXXXX-XXXXX
 
  
−
=== Forums ===
+
{{Fixbox|description=5. Toggle UPnP on/off|fix=
−
{|class="wikitable" margin: 10px;"
+
}}
−
!Name
 
−
!Description
 
−
!Link
 
  
−
|-
+
{{Fixbox|description=6. Try port forwarding UDP and TCP ports 80, 2300-2310 or 2300-2340|fix=
−
| AgeCommunity || Official Forum || [http://forum.agecommunity.com/ AgeCommunity.com]
+
}}
−
|-
 
−
| AoE3 Heaven || Has large file database; mostly custom content. || [http://aoe3.heavengames.com/ HeavenGames.com]
 
−
|-
 
−
| RTS-Sanctuary || File database; mostly game replays. || [http://www.rts-sanctuary.com/index.php?s=b32fea3b91589fc9110c02f496af2a48&portal=TAD&showforum=43 RTS-Sanctuary.com]
 
−
|}
 
  
−
== Windows 7 Support ==
+
{{Fixbox|description=7. Override the port to 2300 by using the <code>OverridePort="2300"</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]]|fix=
−
Age of Empires III and its expansions are not officially supported on Windows 7. However, most users find that it works without problems even on Windows 7 64 bit.
+
}}
  
−
== System Requirements ==
+
{{Fixbox|description=8. Override the game to use the correct IP address by using the <code>OverrideAddress=</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]]|fix=
 +
}}
  
−
{{SysReq_BaseTemplate
+
{{Fixbox|description=9. Set the router to DMZ mode|fix=
−
|minOS_ = Windows XP
 
−
|minproc_ = 1.4GHz Intel or AMD Processor
 
−
|minmem_ = 256 MB
 
−
|minHD_ = 2 GB free
 
−
|minGPU1_ = 64 MB graphics card capable of Hardware T&L
 
−
|minVRAM_ = 64 MB
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 +
==Other information==
 +
===API===
 +
{{API
 +
|direct3d versions      = 9.0c
 +
|direct3d notes        =
 +
|directdraw versions    =
 +
|directdraw notes      =
 +
|opengl versions        = 2
 +
|opengl notes          = OS X only.
 +
|glide versions        =
 +
|glide notes            =
 +
|software mode          =
 +
|software mode notes    =
 +
|mantle support        =
 +
|mantle support notes  =
 +
|vulkan versions        =
 +
|vulkan notes          =
 +
|dos modes              =
 +
|dos modes notes        =
 +
|shader model versions  = 3.0
 +
|shader model notes    =
 +
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
 +
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 +
|windows arm app        = false
 +
|windows exe notes      =
 +
|mac os x powerpc app  = true
 +
|macos intel 32-bit app = true
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app = false
 +
|macos arm app          = unknown
 +
|macos app notes        = 32-bit only.
 +
|linux 32-bit executable=
 +
|linux 64-bit executable=
 +
|linux arm app          = unknown
 +
|linux executable notes =
 +
}}
  
−
{{SysReq_BaseTemplate
+
===Middleware===
−
|OSfamily_ = Mac
+
{{Middleware
−
|minOS_ = Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later
+
|physics          =
−
|recOS_ = Mac OS X 10.4.7 or later
+
|physics notes    =  
−
|minproc_ = 1.4 GHz or faster PowerPC G4 or G5 or Intel processor
+
|audio            = DirectSound
−
|recproc_ = 2.0 GHz G5 or dual Processor
+
|audio notes      = [https://wayback.archive.org/web/20130702030043/http://connect.creativelabs.com/alchemy/Lists/Games/AllItems.aspx]
−
|minmem_ = 512 MB
+
|interface        =  
−
|recmem_ = 1 GB
+
|interface notes  =  
−
|minHD_ = 2 GB free
+
|input            =  
−
|minGPU1_ = 64 MB 3D graphics card
+
|input notes      =  
−
|minVRAM_ = 64 MB
+
|cutscenes        = Bink Video
−
|recVRAM_ = 128 MB
+
|cutscenes notes  =  
 +
|multiplayer      = Ensemble Studios Online (ESO)
 +
|multiplayer notes=  
 +
}}
  
 +
==System requirements==
 +
{{System requirements
 +
|OSfamily = Windows
  
 +
|minOS    = XP
 +
|minCPU  = Intel Pentium 4 1.4 GHz
 +
|minRAM  = 256 MB
 +
|minHD    = 4 GB
 +
|minGPU  = Nvidia GeForce FX 5500
 +
|minGPU2  = ATI Radeon X300 series
 +
|minVRAM  = 64 MB
 +
|minDX    = 9.0c
  
 +
|recOS    =
 +
|recCPU  = Intel Core 2 Duo 2.2 GHz
 +
|recRAM  = 2 GB
 +
|recHD    = 12 GB
 +
|recGPU  = Nvidia GeForce 6800
 +
|recGPU2  = ATI Radeon X1300
 +
|notes    = {{ii}} Windows 98SE, ME, and 2000 have found to work with the game with few issues, but they are not officially supported.
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{PlayOn
 
−
|NativeWin = http://store.steampowered.com/app/105450/
 
−
|NativeMac =http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Age_of_Empires_III
 
−
|NativeLin =
 
−
}}
 
  
−
== Links ==
+
{{System requirements
−
[http://www.ageofempires3.com/ Age of Empires III Site; Download Trial Version available]
+
|OSfamily = OS X
−
[http://ageofempires.wikia.com/wiki/Age_of_Empires_Series_Wiki Wikia for the entire series]
+
 
 +
|minOS    = 10.3.9
 +
|minCPU  = IBM PowerPC G4/G5 1.4 GHz
 +
|minCPU2  = Intel 1.4 GHz
 +
|minRAM  = 512 MB
 +
|minHD    = 2 GB
 +
|minGPU  =
 +
|minVRAM  = 64 MB
  
−
== See Also ==
+
|recOS    = 10.4.7
−
* [[Age of Empires]]
+
|recCPU  = IBM PowerPC G5 2.0 GHz
−
* [[Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings]]
+
|recCPU2  = Intel Core 2 Duo
 +
|recRAM  = 1 GB
 +
|recGPU  =  
 +
|recVRAM  = 128 MB
 +
}}
  
−
[[Category:Game]]
+
{{References}}
−
[[Category:Windows]]
 

Latest revision as of 11:14, 31 March 2024

This page is for the original release. For the Definitive Edition, see Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition.

Age of Empires III
Age of Empires III cover
Developers
Ensemble Studios
The Asian Dynasties Big Huge Games
Last patch set[1] Robot Entertainment
macOS (OS X) Westlake Interactive
Publishers
Microsoft Game Studios
Re-releases Ubisoft
OS X MacSoft
Engines
BANG!
Release dates
Windows October 18, 2005
macOS (OS X) September 29, 2006
Reception
Metacritic 81
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase, Expansion pack
Microtransactions None
Modes Singleplayer, Multiplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives Bird's-eye view
Controls Multiple select, Point and select
Genres RTS
Themes Asia, North America, South America
Series Age of Empires
Icon overlay.png
Age of Empires III on HowLongToBeat
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Age of Empires III guide on StrategyWiki
Age of Empires III on MobyGames
Age of Empires III on Wikipedia
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
⤏ Go to series page
Age of Empires 1997
Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings 1999
Age of Mythology 2002
Age of Empires III 2005
Age of Empires Online 2011
Age of Empires II: HD Edition 2013
Age of Mythology: Extended Edition 2014
Age of Empires: Castle Siege 2014
Age of Empires: Definitive Edition 2018
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition 2019
Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition 2020
Age of Empires IV 2021
Age of Mythology: Retold 2024

Warnings

The macOS (OS X) version of this game does not work on macOS Catalina (version 10.15) or later due to the removal of support for 32-bit-only apps.

Age of Empires III is a singleplayer and multiplayer bird's-eye view RTS game in the Age of Empires series.

After its release, the game received The War Chiefs expansion in October 2006 and The Asian Dynasties in October 2007 (the latter by Big Huge Games), with new civilizations, campaigns and mechanics. The latest official patches developed by Robot Entertainment (founded by some of the ex-Ensemble staff after its closure) also removed the SmarteSECURE DRM, leaving only a serial key requirement.

The game runs stable on modern systems. Age of Empires III is the only Ensemble-era game in the series with official servers still online, but as of 2021 an official patch is required to change the domain lookup as Microsoft no longer controls the original domain. These servers are no longer actively supported and account loss can not be remedied. The ESOCommunity fansite maintained interest in this iteration of the game with its community patch until the release of the Definitive Edition, which has replaced the original in competitive play, and with ESOCommunity retaining its position as a community hub and frequent event host.

General information

Official website for the series
Official Discord server for the series
Age of Empires Wiki
Official support knowledgebase
ESOCommunity home to the ESOC Patch and the competitive multiplayer community
HeavenGames.com Large file database with lots of custom content
RTS-Sanctuary.com File database with many game replays
Steam Community Discussions

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Disc check (requires the CD/DVD in the drive to play)
CD key
 SmarteSECURE DRM - removed in latest patches (1.14/1.06/1.03).
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Humble Store
Icon overlay.png
 Complete Collection.
Windows
Steam
CD key
 Complete Collection. Steam DRM check is present only on first launch while the serial key for the entire collection is applied to the registry; the game can be run without Steam afterwards by launching from any of the executables.[2]
Renamed to Age of Empires III (2007)[Note 1] on October 15, 2020 due to the release of the Definitive Edition.
Windows
Amazon.com (unavailable)
Icon overlay.png
 Non-Steam version also available.
Windows
Games for Windows Marketplace (unavailable)
Icon overlay.png
 Was marketed as Age of Empires Complete Edition, for unknown reasons.[3]
Windows
Online features require an Ensemble Studios Online (ESO) Account (registered in-game).
Retail CD keys for the Complete Edition can be activated on Steam (US version only).[4]
Free demo versions are available from GameFront: base game (Windows), base game (OS X) The War Chiefs, The Asian Dynasties.

Version differences

The Gold Edition is includes the base game and The War Chiefs expansion pack.
The Complete Collection is includes the base game and both expansion packs. It is the only digital release.

Monetization

Type Notes
Expansion pack The expansion packs include new civilizations, units, mechanics and campaigns.
One-time game purchase The game requires an upfront purchase to access.

DLC and expansion packs

Name Notes
The WarChiefs Added 8 maps, 3 civilizations, 2 plot acts, warchief units, revolutions and stealth.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
The Asian Dynasties Added 3 Asian Civilizations, each one with a campaign, wonder and the new export resource. As well as 6 new native civilizations.
Windows
macOS (OS X)

Essential improvements

Skip intro videos

Use the +noIntroCinematics command line argument[5]

Patches

The latest official patch for the base game is v1.14
The latest official patch for The Warchiefs expansion is v1.06
The latest official patch for The Asian Dynasties expansion is v1.03
For macOS (OS X), see the archived patch page
The Windows patches are also available from the official support knowledge base.
As of 2021, an official patch is available for fixing a connection issue caused by the official ESO multiplayer server domain change. Note that it causes an version mismatch with players who do not have it installed.

Unofficial patches

The unofficial ESOCommunity (ESOC) patch for The Asian Dynasties includes a wide range of balance changes and bug fixes, as well as additional maps for skirmish and multiplayer. Its development ended after the release of the Definitive Edition, but its balance changes were used as a reference for this edition's balancing at launch.

Game data

In-game general settings.
In-game general settings.
In-game UI settings. The "Enable IME" option under "Regional" is not shown.
In-game UI settings. The "Enable IME" option under "Regional" is not shown.

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows %USERPROFILE%\Documents\My Games\Age of Empires 3\Users\
macOS (OS X) $HOME/Documents/Age of Empires III/Users/
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/105450/pfx/[Note 2]

Save game data location

System Location
Windows %USERPROFILE%\Documents\My Games\Age of Empires 3\Savegame\
macOS (OS X) $HOME/Documents/Age of Empires III/Savegame/
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/105450/pfx/[Note 2]

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
OneDrive
Requires enabling backup of the Documents folder in OneDrive on all computers.
Steam Cloud
Homecities can be saved on the official ESO multiplayer platform (effectively in a cloud).

Video

In-game video settings (1/2).
In-game video settings (1/2).
In-game video settings (2/2).
In-game video settings (2/2).

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
 
Multi-monitor
 
Ultra-widescreen
 
 HUD is partially stretched.[6]
4K Ultra HD
 
 Some in-game texts becomes small.
Field of view (FOV)
Windowed
Borderless fullscreen windowed
Game has no borders at max resolution when in windowed mode.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
Anti-aliasing (AA)
Vertical sync (Vsync)
60 FPS and 120+ FPS
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.

Input

In-game key map settings.
In-game key map settings.

Keyboard and mouse State Notes
Remapping
Mouse acceleration
Mouse sensitivity
For scroll speed.
Mouse input in menus
Mouse Y-axis inversion
Controller
Controller support
Controller types

Audio

In-game audio settings.
In-game audio settings.

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Surround sound
Stereo only.[7]
Subtitles
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
Royalty free audio

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
French
German
Hungarian
A fan translation by kds: base game, videos, The WarChiefs, Complete Edition
Italian
Korean
Polish
Retail only.
Brazilian Portuguese
Retail only.
Spanish

Network

Online features require an ESO Account (registered in-game).

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
LAN play
8
Online play
8

Connection types

Type Native Notes
Matchmaking
Peer-to-peer
Dedicated
Self-hosting
Direct IP
Enter in-game or use OverrideAddress= and hostPort= parameters.[8]

Ports

Protocol Port(s) and/or port range(s)
TCP 80, 2300
UDP 2300-2310
This game supports Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) for automatic port configuration.

VR support

3D modes State Notes
vorpX
G3D
User created game profile (Complete Collection); see vorpx forum profile introduction.

Issues fixed

Game crashes on startup

Run the game as administrator and/or in compatibility mode for Windows XP SP2

"MSXML4.0 is not installed correctly" on startup

Reinstall MSXML 4.0. Use the installer on the disc, the <path-to-game>\msxml subdirectory on Steam, or official download
This error may appear as a blank error message/dialog box, with no text and just an error icon.

ESO servers inaccessible

Apply the official ESO patch

As of September 1, 2021, Microsoft no longer owns the eso.com domain. To make sure the multiplayer mode of Age of Empires III points to a backend that is under their control, they have released a patch (requires the latest retail patch or the Steam version).[9]

Note that this patch causes a version mismatch with players who do not have it installed.

ESO account support

Problems with ESO accounts like lost passwords are handled through the Account Management Tool on the official site.
Microsoft and associated parties are unable to provide support for these accounts,[10] despite reports of stolen or otherwise inaccessible accounts over the years.[11] [12]

Failed to join in multiplayer

This is the most common error suffered with Age of Empires III multiplayer. This error can be caused by many problems, and consequently, there are many methods to try to repair it. After each of the numbered solutions, attempt connecting to several games in multiplayer; only proceed to the next if you are still experiencing issues.

1. Allow ESO server more time to load
This solution needs to be done on each login.
  1. Log in to ESO.
  2. Stay on the home page and wait about 10 minutes. Do not whisper to friends, check clan info, or go to any other tab.
  3. After 10 minutes, the problem may now be fixed. The Home Page can now be left.
2. Try power cycling network hardware
  1. Turn off the modem, router, and PC.
  2. Wait a few minutes.
  3. Turn them back on in the listed order.
3. Ensure the game executables are listed in the firewall's exception list
4. Switch from wireless Internet connection to a wired one (if applicable)
5. Toggle UPnP on/off
6. Try port forwarding UDP and TCP ports 80, 2300-2310 or 2300-2340
7. Override the port to 2300 by using the OverridePort="2300" command line argument
8. Override the game to use the correct IP address by using the OverrideAddress= command line argument
9. Set the router to DMZ mode

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 9.0c
OpenGL 2 OS X only.
Shader Model support 3.0
ExecutablePPC 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows
macOS (OS X)
32-bit only.

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Audio DirectSound [1]
Cutscenes Bink Video
Multiplayer Ensemble Studios Online (ESO)

System requirements

Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) XP
Processor (CPU) Intel Pentium 4 1.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo 2.2 GHz
System memory (RAM) 256 MB 2 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 4 GB 12 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce FX 5500
ATI Radeon X300 series
64 MB of VRAM
DirectX 9.0c compatible 		Nvidia GeForce 6800
ATI Radeon X1300
Windows 98SE, ME, and 2000 have found to work with the game with few issues, but they are not officially supported.
macOS (OS X)
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) 10.3.9 10.4.7
Processor (CPU) IBM PowerPC G4/G5 1.4 GHz
Intel 1.4 GHz		 IBM PowerPC G5 2.0 GHz
Intel Core 2 Duo
System memory (RAM) 512 MB 1 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 2 GB
Video card (GPU) 64 MB of VRAM 128 MB of VRAM


Notes

  1. ↑ 2007 being the release date of The Asian Dynasties, not the original Age of Empires III.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 Notes regarding Steam Play (Linux) data:

References

  1. ↑ Shown in the latest patch changelogs. Worth noting is that the company was founded by some former Ensemble Studios staff immediately after its closure.
  2. ↑ Verified by User:Plok on 21 November 2022
  3. ↑ Games for Windows Marketplace launches Nov. 15 - last accessed on 19 August 2022
  4. ↑ Retail / Digital CD Keys - CD-Key - Knowledge Base - Steam Support - last accessed on May 2023
  5. ↑ No Intro Cinematics - Age of Empires III Heaven Forum - last accessed on 2024-03-31
  6. ↑ Age Of Empire III 21:9 Review (2560x1080) (60fps) (Ultrawide) - YouTube - last accessed on May 2023
  7. ↑ How do I enable surround sound? - Age of Empires III Heaven Forum
  8. ↑ Direct IP? Is it working? - Age of Empires III Heaven Forum
  9. ↑ Age of Empires III: CC ESO Patch - Age of Empires Support - last accessed on 2022-11-26
  10. ↑ FAQ - ESO and Multiplayer - Age of Empires Support - last accessed on 2022-11-26
  11. ↑ Stolen account!!! - Age of Empires III Heaven Forum - last accessed on 2022-11-26
  12. ↑ My Account Back : aoe3 - last accessed on 2022-11-26