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Age of Mythology: Retold Update 19.12998, released May 21, 2026, improves UI texture memory use, fixes an interface issue affecting top-bar tabs, and includes balance changes alongside stability, performance, audio, visual, campaign and modding updates. The headline does not identify a build; this article covers that specific May update, not the later June and July patches.
What changed in Update 19.12998?
The May 21 update touched several areas of the game. Its most notable interface change was a switch to DDS textures for most UI images, while its fixes included an issue that could prevent access to top-bar tabs after entering Ranked. The official notes also list gameplay and balance adjustments, plus work on stability, performance, visuals, audio, hotkeys, campaigns and modding.
UI textures and memory use
According to the official Update 19.12998 notes, most UI images moved to DDS textures, with minor quality corrections to some images. The developers say this produced small performance gains and reduced UI-texture memory usage by up to 70% in some situations. That is a conditional developer-reported figure, not an independently verified benchmark or a promise of the same reduction on every system.
Interface fixes and Compendium details
- A bug could block access to top-bar tabs, including areas such as the Tech Tree, after entering Ranked; the update fixed it.
- The Compendium gained scientific names and size details for Aztec myth units.
Balance and other changes
The patch also includes balance and gameplay adjustments. Its notes cover fixes and improvements across stability, performance, visuals, audio, hotkeys, campaigns and modding. The official summary spans these areas, but it does not mean every change affects every platform or player in the same way.
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How this patch fits into later updates
Update 19.12998 is not the only update released after May. These nearby patches have distinct dates and additions:
| Build and date | Notable changes |
|---|---|
| 19.12998 — May 21, 2026 | UI texture changes and fixes, balance and gameplay adjustments, plus stability, performance and other fixes. Official notes. |
| 19.14612 — June 8, 2026 | Added a Random Map for Obsidian Mirror owners and expanded Demeter gameplay, alongside balance changes, bug fixes and performance enhancements. Official notes. |
| 19.16313 — June 23, 2026 | Added rotating launch loading screens and ten cheat codes, with ownership restrictions for some codes. Also included Greek-language voice-over, stability and gameplay fixes, and balance changes. Official forum notes. |
| 19.17020 — July 1, 2026 | A minor update focused on stability and gameplay bug fixes. Official notes. |
These dates and builds help distinguish the May interface-focused patch from later content additions and fixes. The available update information here does not establish which build is current in October 2026.
Rank #2
- Age of Mythology: Retold goes beyond history to a mythical age where gods, monsters, and humans collide
- Combining the best of the beloved Age of Mythology with modern real-time strategy design and visuals
- Retold is an epic and innovative experience for old and new players alike
- Secure your domain, command monsters, and invoke divine wrath on foes
How to check for the update
Update delivery depends on where you play. The official July 1 update page directs players to check for the game’s current update through the relevant storefront; its notes provide separate instructions for Microsoft Store, Steam, Xbox App for Windows and PlayStation 5. Open the update client for your platform and check the game’s update status rather than assuming that build 19.12998 is the latest available.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Replays and mods after a patch
The Age of Mythology team warns in the May update notes that custom mods may not be compatible with a new update. It also says replays do not remain compatible between patch updates because changes to simulation logic can make an old replay run out of sync with its original behavior. If you want to keep a replay or rely on a mod, check its compatibility before updating.
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Quick Recap
Rank #4
- ⚡️ GREAT MATH GAME! Fantastic for reinforcing mental math skills
- ⚡️ New and Improved Game Play!
- ⚡️ Includes full-color Zeus figurine!
- ⚡️ 2-5 players Ages 8+ 15 minute play time
- 🏕 As part of HAPPY CAMPER's mission, a portion of sales from this game benefits summer camp scholarships. Thanks for your support!
Rank #3
- Xbox Game Pass members or those who have access to the Standard Edition, elevate your mythological journey with the Premium Upgrade
- Enjoy: up to 7-day exclusive Advanced Access, exclusive "Freyr" New Gods Pack, Legacy Deity Portrait Pack, Expansion 1 (all-new Chinese pantheon), and Expansion 2 (additional new pantheon).
- Requires Age of Mythology: Retold, sold separately or via Game Pass subscription (Ultimate, PC, Console)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
