Microsoft has officially uncancelled a previously abandoned downloadable content pack for Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition. Originally announced back in February 2023 with a loose "late 2024" window, the project faced a delay and subsequent cancellation last January after Microsoft admitted the announcement came before the development team had started working on it.
Quick Facts
- Game: Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition
- Platform: PC
- DLC Title: The Baltic Powers
- Release Date: September 10, 2026
- New Civilizations: The Danes and the Poles
The Baltic Powers Expansion Content
Revived 16 months after its cancellation, the newly titled The Baltic Powers expansion arrives on PC on September 10, 2026. Microsoft stated the revival is a response to the ongoing passion and feedback from the Age 3 community.
The expansion introduces two new playable factions. The Poles feature lower building costs, civic bonuses, a booming Folwark economy, and cavalry options. Meanwhile, the Danes utilize a Customs House to leverage shipments from other players from the start, build up their economy across ages, and defend territory using Snaphane and Gunboat levies.
Maps, Modes, and Scenarios
Beyond the two new civilisations, The Baltic Powers includes 25 new maps, over 50 hero customisations, and fresh game modes. Regicide tasks players with a race to eliminate the enemy Regent, while Independence strips away Home City support to test strategy and battlefield execution.
Additionally, the expansion adds two scenarios titled Commonwealth Charge and Havana Heat. The revival arrives alongside wider shifts at Microsoft, which recently announced an upcoming wave of layoffs affecting 3,200 Xbox employees by next July.