Originally Posted by t0m

Well, most of you have probably asked that question many times. So I made this little something to introduce to you the world of 'Decks' , which somehow manage to confuse you all. This new feature will finally add a new level of strategy to the Age series.

So I haven't elaborated on that idea enough, you say? Well, here goes.

There are 8 races in AOE3; Dutch, English, Russians, Ottomans, Spanish, Portugeuse, Germans, and of course the French. These civilizations all have their very own 'Home Cities' (then again, which race doesn't have a main area of settlement? ) Before the game, you are asked to create a deck of 'cards' or upgrades your Home City ships to you when you reach a certain age. You are allowed 20 cards (upgrades) in your 'Deck'

You can create a maximum of 8-12 decks, choosing many different upgrades from a list. Choose wisely though, a single card can mean the difference between winning and losing. We are yet to see more of the feature but it seems to add more strategy to the game rather than amassing as many units as possible and attacking your opponent. Expect this feature to turn the tide of many battles.

I won't stop here, with the introduction to 'Decks'. More new features in the game:

-Changing wind patterns.
This is mostly noticeable when using ships. When sailing against the wind, expect to see slower ship speeds.
-Units with ragdolls.
A great improvement over animated deaths. Age 3 uses the Half Life 2 'Havok' engine to simulate...well..deaths...and stuff like that.
-Graphics
Well, everyone knows about this one. But who's seen graphics like this for an RTS game?!!?!
-ESO 2
New improved system to play online will certainly enhance play with new features such as Quick Play, and Clan Tag system.

More to come soon!

Originally Posted by -Ghost-

A few of those things sound a lot like RoN, like the idea of having "Cards" to use to upgrade your civilization in some way. Home Cities does too, somewhat, as each country had a capital in the Conquer the World campaign, and you'd have a "Capital" city in each scenario you fought in.

Originally Posted by -Ghost-

*gets excited at a potentially active thread* Do we know much about siege warfare? Will there be anything like attrition, where if your units are in enemy territory too long they start taking damage?

Originally Posted by ZealoT41