Age of Empires II to Get HD Edition on April 9

Only a handful of tunes can mentally transport me to another time and place. 40 oz. to Freedom is one of them. The opening music to Age of Empires II is another. Out of all the hours I’ve spent playing games over the years, no single title has been a bigger time vampire than the second AoE.

Originally developed by Ensemble Studios, Microsoft Studios has decided that an HD remake is in order. Coming to Steam on April 9 for $20, Age of Empires II HD Edition will be made available with all of the original content, as well as the Conqueror’s Expansion Pack. If you’re anything like me and cannot wait, the game is available now for pre-order, and those choosing to take that route will be rewarded with a 10% discount and the ability to play the game 4 days early.

There are no words to adequately describe my excitement. It also gives hope that if the industry continues to feel the need remake past hits, maybe there is still hope for another Sierra Online round of games. You’re my muse, Roberta Williams.