A press release from Microsoft was posted today announcing "Age of Empires Online". According to the press release:

On the eve of gamescom 2010, the world’s largest consumer-oriented games showcase, Microsoft Corp. unveiled the newest addition to the famed “Age of Empires” franchise, “Age of Empires Online.” Microsoft also announced the development of “Microsoft Flight,” a new entry inspired by the best-selling “Microsoft Flight Simulator” franchise. Published by Microsoft Game Studios, these new titles, along with the previously announced “Fable III,” fully integrate the free* Games for Windows – LIVE online service to deliver compelling socially connected gameplay experiences.

Marrying fresh features with iconic gameplay, “Age of Empires Online” offers something for long-time fans, newcomers and everyone in between. “Age of Empires Online” will feature:

A persistent online capital city that lives and grows even when you’re offline

Yours truly, was actually part of the Alpha test phase and I can tell you this game has all the RTS goodness of the AOE box titles along with a persistant overworld and leveling system. These two features create an immersive and addictive experience that I really enjoy.

More information, news and chances to join the beta program are available at http://www.ageofempiresonline.com.