Master the Mediterranean! You can buy the Knights of the Mediterranean key — the most content-rich expansion for Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition. Take control of the wealthy merchant republics of Italy or the impregnable fortresses of the Knights of Malta. For the first time, Royal Houses of Europe (Bourbons, Habsburgs, Romanovs, etc.) appear on maps as minor civilizations offering alliances and unique units. Also features the new "Tycoon" mode for players who prefer economy over warfare. This is a Global key playable worldwide.
⚠️ WARNING: This is Downloadable Content (DLC). The base game Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition is required on Steam to play.
What is included in Knights of the Mediterranean?
- 2 New Civilizations:
- Italians: Kings of diplomacy and mercenaries. Unique Unit: Architect (constructs buildings for free but slowly). Can research Home City techs directly at the Basilica.
- Maltese: Masters of defense. Unique Units: Hospitaller (tanky healer) and Fixed Gun. Their buildings grant hitpoint bonuses to nearby troops.
- 9 Royal Houses: New "minor civilizations" on European maps. Build a Trading Post at their palace to hire legendary units: from French Musketeers to German Black Riders.
- Tycoon Mode: A peaceful game mode where the winner is the one who builds the strongest economy, not the strongest army. Perfect for those who dislike early rushes.
- 30 New Maps: A massive set of maps focused on the European region.
New Civilizations Comparison
| Feature | Italians | Maltese |
| Playstyle | Trade, Mercenaries, Diplomacy | Heavy Defense & Fortification |
| Unique Mechanic | Basilica: Spawns Papal Guards and Spies. | Commandery: Garrisons that teleport units across the map. |
| Special Unit | Pavisier (Crossbowman with a shield) | Fire Thrower (Area of effect damage) |
Instruction: How to activate DLC on Steam
- Open the Steam client.
- Click "Games" in the top menu -> "Activate a Product on Steam".
- Enter the key you received.
- The DLC will download automatically. The new civs will appear in the selection screen.
FAQ
1. Do I need the original game?
Yes. Without the base version of Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition, this key cannot be redeemed.
2. What are Royal Houses?
They replace "Native Settlements" on European maps. Instead of Native Americans, you ally with dynasties (Vasa, Jagiellon, Oldenburg, etc.) to gain access to their unique European units and technologies.
3. What is Tycoon Mode?
In this mode, military aggression is disabled. Your goal is to reach a certain "economic score" faster than your opponent. It's a pure competition of macro-management and resource efficiency.
4. Can Malta teleport units?
Yes, their unique "Commandery" buildings allow you to instantly move garrisoned troops between them, acting like a tunnel network.
5. Is it region locked?
No. This is a Global key, it activates without regional restrictions.
6. Are there new Historical Battles?
Yes, the DLC includes 8 new Historical Maps which offer unique objectives based on famous European conflicts.