Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition is getting another massive content drop. Titled The Three Kingdoms, the upcoming DLC is set to launch on May 6, 2025, and introduces a wealth of new content, including five civilizations, six units, and three full campaigns. Pre-orders are already live with a 15% discount ahead of release.
A Return to Ancient China: What’s in The Three Kingdoms Expansion?
Inspired by the legendary Three Kingdoms period of third-century China, the expansion dives deep into one of the most chaotic and romanticized eras of history. Players can expect massive military clashes, political intrigue, and tales of heroism as they fight for dominance over the remnants of the Han Dynasty.
New Civilizations
The Three Kingdoms DLC adds five fully playable civilizations:
- Shu
- Wei
- Wu
- Jurchens
- Khitans
Each civ is expected to come with unique bonuses, tech trees, and regional units that reflect their historical roots.
New Units
Six powerful units will be introduced:
- Hei Guang Cavalry – heavily armored shock cavalry
- Traction Trebuchet – mobile siege engine with long-range destruction
- Lou Chuan – a fearsome “floating fortress” that dominates sea battles
- Dragon Ship – swift and deadly naval support
- Fire Lancer – explosive infantry unit
- Rocket Cart – ranged unit with devastating area damage
New Campaigns
Three campaigns will bring the stories of the Three Kingdoms to life:
- Liu Bei (Shu): The noble idealist seeking to restore the Han
- Cao Cao (Wei): The ruthless tactician with grand ambitions
- The Sun Clan (Wu): Naval superiority and clever strategy dominate the southern lands
Each campaign is packed with drama, betrayal, and tactical warfare that long-time fans of Age of Empires 2 campaigns will appreciate.
PlayStation 5 Bonus & Premium Edition
While the DLC is available for PC and Xbox users as a standalone purchase, PlayStation 5 players will only gain access to The Three Kingdoms through the $99.99 Premium Edition of Age of Empires 2: DE, which releases the same day.
Major Update Coming Before Release
A significant base game update is expected before the end of April 2025, bringing:
- Enhanced castle visuals
- Updated technology tree UI
- Gameplay balancing
- New maps
- Support for random map scripting
This update lays the groundwork for the new expansion and adds even more content for all players—regardless of DLC ownership.
Final Thoughts
With The Three Kingdoms, Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re a seasoned commander or new to the battlefield, this expansion promises one of the most content-rich and thematically exciting additions yet.
Mark your calendar for May 6 and prepare to forge your dynasty in the fires of one of history’s most iconic power struggles.
