A unique alphanumeric code grants access to the digital version of the real-time strategy game, Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition. This code, often referred to as a product key, is required during the installation process to verify the legitimacy of the purchase and unlock the full game content. Without this, access to the game is restricted or unavailable.
This activation method ensures that only authorized users can enjoy the experience. It protects the intellectual property of the game developers and publishers, and it helps maintain the game’s online environment by reducing the risk of piracy. The process also allows players to permanently associate their copy of the game with their respective accounts on platforms like Steam or the Microsoft Store, enabling convenient re-downloading and installation on multiple devices. This system ensures that they have a legitimate copy of the game as well.