Summary
Age of Mythology: Retold – Immortal Pillars is more than just an expansion; it’s a reinvention of what makes Age of Mythology great. The introduction of the Chinese civilization injects a fresh sense of strategy and mythos into the game, while the Pillars of the Gods campaign offers an unforgettable journey through one of the richest mythologies in human history. The new pantheon, the mythological units, the breathtaking maps, and the innovative mechanics all come together to create a package that feels both expansive and deeply respectful of its source material.
Developer – World’s Edge, Virtuos Games, Forgotten Empires, Tantalus Media
Publisher – Xbox Game Studios
Platforms – PC (Reviewed)
Review copy given by Developer
Age of Mythology has long stood as a beacon of mythological real-time strategy, blending divine intervention with strategic prowess. Now, with Immortal Pillars, the latest expansion for Age of Mythology: Retold, the legendary franchise takes a bold step into the mystical heart of Chinese mythology. Released on March 4, 2025, this expansion is a monumental addition, introducing the long-awaited Chinese civilization, a sprawling pantheon, and a gripping narrative campaign that redefines what it means to wield the power of the gods.
Within its newly introduced Chinese pantheon, a roster of 12 deities drawn straight from the annals of Chinese mythology. Each god brings a distinct flavor to the battlefield, offering unique god powers and mythical creatures that redefine strategic possibilities.
Leading the charge is Fuxi, the master of civilization, whose Peach Blossom Spring power spurs economic prosperity and rapid expansion. Meanwhile, Nüwa, the divine architect of humanity, bestows the Clay Peasants ability, dramatically accelerating city development. For those who favor nature’s bounty, Shennong grants resilience through agriculture, ensuring sustainable resources even in the direst conflicts.
This expansion marks the first time in the franchise’s history that a new pantheon has been added, and it’s nothing short of transformative. The sheer variety of playstyles available—whether through economic superiority, military might, or mythological dominance—offers a fresh experience even for veteran players.
At the heart of Immortal Pillars lies the Pillars of the Gods campaign, a nine-mission odyssey that plunges players deep into the legends of ancient China. This is not just another RTS campaign—it’s an expertly woven tale of divine intervention, treacherous warlords, and legendary beasts.
Players step into the role of Wei Han, a young general chosen by the gods to reunite a fractured empire teetering on the brink of chaos. As Wei Han, players will navigate a turbulent landscape of warring factions, encountering figures such as the cunning warlord Gao Jian and the enigmatic Oracle of Kunlun. Divine forces are at play as celestial mandates shape the world, and Wei Han’s choices will determine the fate of the Middle Kingdom.
From storming fortified mountain monasteries to defending the legendary city of Penglai against a siege of mythical proportions, each mission delivers an intense blend of tactical gameplay and rich storytelling. The gods themselves take an active role in shaping the events, occasionally descending to bestow blessings—or wrath—upon the battlefield. The campaign’s pacing is impeccable, offering a mix of large-scale warfare, puzzle-like divine trials, and moments of quiet introspection amid the chaos of an empire in flux.
A new civilization wouldn’t be complete without its mythic warriors, and Immortal Pillars delivers in spectacular fashion. The battlefield comes alive with fearsome creatures from Chinese folklore, each bringing unique mechanics to the fray.
The fire-spewing Qilin gallops through enemy ranks, searing foes with divine flames. The Qinglong, a celestial dragon, soars above the battlefield, raining destruction from the skies. Most terrifying of all is the Taotie, a monstrous glutton that devours enemies whole and belches them out as flaming projectiles. These creatures add an exhilarating layer of strategy, forcing players to adapt to their opponents’ divine arsenals.
Complementing these units is the Favored Land mechanic, a revolutionary addition that rewards players for thoughtful city-building. Structures placed in harmony with the land receive powerful adjacency bonuses, encouraging a playstyle that is as strategic as it is artistic. The result is a civilization that feels uniquely Chinese—not just in aesthetics, but in mechanics and philosophy.
Visually, Immortal Pillars is a masterpiece. The expansion introduces seven breathtaking new maps inspired by China’s diverse landscapes. From the serene Bamboo Grove, where mist rolls through towering stalks, to the bustling Silk Road, where trade routes shape the tides of war, each environment is a love letter to China’s rich geography and history.
The Great Wall map, in particular, offers an innovative twist on defensive play, challenging players to leverage the ancient fortification’s strategic advantages while fending off relentless sieges. The attention to detail in architecture, unit design, and environmental effects immerses players in a world that feels both mythic and tangible.
Age of Mythology: Retold – Immortal Pillars is more than just an expansion; it’s a reinvention of what makes Age of Mythology great. The introduction of the Chinese civilization injects a fresh sense of strategy and mythos into the game, while the Pillars of the Gods campaign offers an unforgettable journey through one of the richest mythologies in human history. The new pantheon, the mythological units, the breathtaking maps, and the innovative mechanics all come together to create a package that feels both expansive and deeply respectful of its source material.
