Hi Forgotten Empires team and AoE community!
I’d love to share some ideas for future expansions in AoE2: Definitive Edition focused on adding rich, diverse Southeast Asian civilizations and new campaigns to explore their unique histories. Here’s a rough proposal:
New Civilizations to Consider Adding:
Thai: Featuring war elephants, unique architecture inspired by Ayutthaya, with strong naval and archer units.
Sri Lankan: A civilization with Buddhist influence, clever defensive bonuses, and elephant archers or specialized spearmen.
Lao: Light cavalry and unique infantry, drawing from the Lan Xang kingdom with river-based economy boosts.
Taiwanese: A mix of indigenous and Han Chinese influences with unique trade bonuses, possibly some Dutch colonial history flavor.
Gameplay Features & Unique Mechanics:
War elephants and unique elephant units with special abilities (Thai, Sri Lankan).
River and trade-based economy bonuses (Lao, Taiwanese).
Unique buildings reflecting local architecture and cultural heritage.
Possible introduction of bank-like economic buildings inspired by AoE3 Dutch banks, adapted for these civs.
Campaign Ideas:
Thai Campaign: Explore the rise and fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and their clashes with Burmese and Khmer neighbors.
Sri Lankan Campaign: Follow the defense of Sri Lanka against South Indian invasions and colonial powers.
Lao Campaign: Experience the formation and expansion of Lan Xang, the Kingdom of a Million Elephants.
Taiwanese Campaign: Delve into indigenous struggles, Dutch colonial era, and early Han Chinese settlers.
Why These Additions?
Southeast Asia is rich in history yet underrepresented in AoE2DE.
Adds new, fresh strategic gameplay opportunities and diversity to the roster.
Fans have expressed interest in seeing these civilizations and stories represented.
Thanks for reading! Would love to see what the community thinks and if the devs would consider expanding into this fascinating region.
Happy gaming!