There were rumors that "Age of Empires II" might be officially, so to say - "refreshed" (source), but nothing was certain, nor anyone could officially confirm if it will happen or what improvements it may bring - until today.
We bring you a news post announced on the http://www.ageofempires.com/age2.html main page:
14 years after Age of Empires II redefined strategy games, we're excited to announce Age of Empires II HD Edition, coming in April 2013. Read the exclusive reveal located at Gamespot: Read More. Check back frequently for new updates!
"Hidden Path Entertainment" (who got to work on updating the game) press page confirms that the game will be officially released on April 9, or a few days earlier (April 5) for those that pre-purchase it (at 10% discount).According to "Microsoft", "Age of Empires II HD Edition" has been remastered for high-resolution displays at 1080p+, and that it also includes an "enhanced visual engine" sporting improved textures for terrain, water and fire, and ambient lighting effects.
"Steam" support will bring Steamworks features which include achievements, leaderboards, matchmaking, and cloud support, while gamers can share user created content through the Steam Workshop.
There is also an announcement trailer - teaser, posted on "GameSpot"`s YouTube channel:
On the official Steam App page we get to see the future minimum system requirements for playing:
[pre]
- OS: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 Pro+
- Platform: Steam Software Platform
- Processor: 1.2GHZ CPU
- Memory: 1 GB RAM
- Graphics: Direct X 9.0c Capable GPU
- Display: 900x600 minimum display resolution
- DirectX®: 9.0c
- Hard Drive: 2 GB HD space