Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition - Dynasties of India

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition - Dynasties of India is the third expansion for the remaster of the second installment of the Age of Empires real-time strategy series. Being a result of cooperation between the creators of the base game from Forgotten Empires studio and the teams of Tantalus Media and Wicked Witch.

Plot

Dynasties of India brings with it three new story campaigns.

In the first one we take part in the fight of Tamerlan's descendants for influence in Persia and Transoxania in Central Asia, controlling Tatars and Hinustanians.

In the second, we lead the Dravidian nation, expanding the territory of Rajendra Chola's empire in southern India. His opponents are not only the neighboring nations, but also the threat of internal corruption that constantly hangs over the country.

The third campaign is the story of Dewapala, who also has a problem with keeping the balance between what is right and what is necessary for the good of the state. Here we lead hosts of Bengalis to fight against their rivals.

Game mechanics

The main attraction of the Dynasties of India add-on are three new nations: Bengalis, Dravidians and Gurdjars. Each stands out thanks to its unique units and specialization.

The Dravidians have a strong fleet and efficient infantry, including the swordsman Urumi, who can strike a powerful blow at enemies. The nation also has unique technologies that allow it to heal battle elephants, whose archers stab enemies much faster than other nations. However, other than that the Dravidians have one of the weakest cavalry in the game.

This is different for the Gurjars, who have access not only to troops of light cavalry capable of dodging bullets, but also to scouts on camels. Their cavalry is also more lethal in combat and focuses on reducing the need for food supplies. This nation has a handful of unique mechanics that make it in need of a capable leader. Especially since Gurdjar armies do not have access to certain technologies, making them less effective compared to armies of other nations.

The last new nation is the Bengalis. It uses elephants and navy and is much simpler in use. The leader playing them has access to simple but effective bonuses, including two villagers appearing after advancing to the next era and regenerating ships. More complicated is their unique unit: horse archer Rath, who can transform into a melee specialist.

Technical aspects

Dynasties of India requires the base game of Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition to work.