Long read: The beauty and drama of video games and their clouds

"It's a little bit hard to work out without knowing the altitude of that dragon..."

If you click on a link and make a purchase we may receive a small commission. Read our editorial policy.

Rise of Nations: Extended Edition due next month on Steam

After Microsoft buys series' rights.

Microsoft Studios has acquired the popular RTS series Rise of Nations and will be releasing its latest offering, Rise of Nations: Extended Edition, on Steam this June.

As detailed on PlayXBLA, this Extended Edition will include spruced up versions of the prime game, Rise of Nations, along with the Thrones and Patriots expansion.

These will feature enhanced visuals with improved textures, lighting and water, while its Steamworks integration will offer cloud saves, Steam Trading Cards, achievements, Twitch integration and multiplayer.

The Extended Edition is being developed by SkyBox Labs, the three-person studio responsible for the recent Age of Mythology: Extended Edition.

Rise of Nations: Extended Edition will retail for £14.99 / $19.99, but pre-orders are 20 per cent off at £11.99 / $15.99.