Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is getting a extensive update that fundamentally changes naval combat. With patch 169123, developer Forgotten Empires is introducing a new line of warships and making profound balance adjustments to the naval system. At the same time, the DLC The Last Chieftains has also been released.
New Hulk ship line at the heart of the naval rework
The new Hulk line is at the heart of the Age of Empires 2 Update Warships. It serves as the main ship class and was also specifically designed as a counter to fire ships.
The line comprises three tiers:
- Hulk
- War Hulk
- Carrack
The units are fast, heavily armored, and designed for close combat. With the help of grappling hooks, they dominate close-range combat. However, they remain vulnerable to ranged ships such as galleys. This noticeably shifts the previous balance of power at sea.
Catapult galleon replaces cannon galleon
The catapult galleon has also been newly introduced. It now replaces the classic cannon galleon in several civilizations.
Its role remains clear: siege at sea. However, the new unit has a shorter range but is more robust and resilient.
Extensive balance adjustments in naval combat
In addition to new units, the naval system has also been comprehensively revised. According to the developers, numerous values have been adjusted.
The most important changes include:
- Blast ships cause less damage
- Fire ships cause only melee damage
- Adjustments to speed, armor, and damage values
Fishing ships have also been changed. They collect resources more slowly and are more vulnerable. However, a new feature is the ability to extract gold from whales – an additional maritime resource. The update thus has a profound impact on existing strategies.
Technical and comfort improvements
In addition to gameplay changes, Patch 169123 also includes several technical enhancements:
- Cross-platform voice chat
- Text-to-speech and speech-to-chat functions
- New regional garrison flags
- Civilization-specific waypoint and rally point flags
This improves accessibility and expands visual customization options.
FAQ
A new Hulk ship class, the Catapult Galleon, and comprehensive balance adjustments to naval combat.
As a counter to fire ships, with a focus on close combat and high durability.
For several civilizations, the Cannon Galleon.
Yes, they are slower and more fragile, but can now collect gold from whales.
Yes, including cross-platform voice chat and new accessibility options.
