Can You Pause the Game in Age of Mythology: Retold? A Guide for Players

When it comes to real-time strategy (RTS) games like Age of Mythology: Retold, players often wonder about the capability to pause the game. RTS games demand quick thinking and fast-paced decision-making. However, there are scenarios when players might want or need a moment to strategize, reflect on their current actions or check their resources without the pressure of live gameplay. This guide is dedicated to clarifying the pause functionality within Age of Mythology: Retold and how players can effectively manage it during their gaming sessions.

Understanding Game Modes and Pause Functions

In Age of Mythology: Retold, the ability to pause the game is supported, but nuances apply depending on the game mode you are playing. There are primarily two modes where the pause functionality comes into play: single-player and multiplayer.

Single-Player Mode

When playing in single-player mode, players can pause the game at any time. This involves pressing the designated Pause/Sleep key on your keyboard, which is typically located above the Page Up (Pg Up) key. This feature is great for individual players who might need a break or want to plan their next moves without the imminent threat of AI opponents advancing rapidly. Additionally, in skirmish mode, players can also adjust the speed of the game—between slow, standard, and fast—which can assist in managing their time and decision-making during tense moments.

Multiplayer Mode

The multiplayer experience in Age of Mythology: Retold adds a layer of complexity regarding pausing the game. In a multiplayer game, any player can pause the game, but be aware that other players may also unpause it at any time. This leads to potential disagreements on timing and duration since coordination is required among players. It is not uncommon for players to encounter situations where one player decides to pause the game for an extended period, which can frustrate others. To mitigate this, it’s advisable to communicate effectively with your team, setting clear expectations for pauses.

Practical Tips for Pausing in Multiplayer Games

1. Set Limits in Lobby Settings: Before your game begins, consider discussing and setting limits for how many times the game can be paused during a session. This can help avoid prolonged interruptions and keep the game flowing smoothly.

2. Communicate with Team Members: If you feel the need to pause, inform your teammates. A brief message in the chat or voice comms about your need to pause will help everyone understand the situation better.

3. Use the Pause Strategically: Timing is everything. Consider pausing during less critical moments in gameplay, such as when you’re still gathering resources or building defenses, rather than during intense battles, as this may leave your team vulnerable.

The Console Experience

For players enjoying Age of Mythology: Retold on consoles, it’s important to note that pausing the game operates differently compared to PC. When you pause the game using the console, it opens the Pause menu, which can limit your ability to plan effectively. This may feel restrictive, as you cannot see the full game screen to strategize your next moves. Players on consoles might want to adopt a slightly different playstyle, factoring in the limitations of the pause feature.

Conclusion

In summary, Age of Mythology: Retold allows players to pause the game, providing a necessary escape from the frantic pace characteristic of RTS gaming. Understanding how and when to utilize the pause function is essential for mastering both single-player and multiplayer modes. Whether it’s taking a moment to strategize, communicate with teammates, or simply taking a break, the pause functionality is a valuable tool that should be employed thoughtfully.

Remember that good communication and planning can alleviate frustrations from pauses, especially in multiplayer settings. Enjoy your strategic endeavors in Age of Mythology: Retold—pause wisely!