Question 1

Is Project Celeste really free?

Accepted Answer

Completely. There is no purchase, no subscription and no cash shop. The premium civilizations and expansion content that cost money in 2013 are unlocked for everyone, because there is no longer a store to buy them from.

Question 2

Is this legal?

Accepted Answer

It operates under Microsoft's Game Content Usage Rules. Microsoft does not sponsor or endorse it. The project rebuilt the server infrastructure itself and has run publicly since 2017.

Question 3

Do I need a Microsoft or Steam account?

Accepted Answer

No. You create a free Project Celeste account inside the launcher. The original Steam and Games for Windows Live versions no longer exist, and nothing carries over from them.

Question 4

Does my old Age of Empires Online progress carry over?

Accepted Answer

No. The original accounts went down with Microsoft's servers in 2014. Everyone starts a fresh civilization on Celeste.

Question 5

Will it run on Mac or Linux?

Accepted Answer

There is no official build for either. Some players get it working through Wine or Proton with mixed results. PlayBound lists it as Windows only and does not currently test the alternatives.

Question 6

Does Project Celeste have multiplayer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Project Celeste supports up to 8 players. Its multiplayer runs through the game's own online service or menus, so PlayBound Connect parties and PlayBound dedicated servers are not available for it. It also supports co-op play and a ranked ladder. The game can run its own dedicated servers. There is no subscription and no paid multiplayer tier.

Question 7

Is Project Celeste still being updated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The launcher's GitHub repository shipped v3.20.0 on 24 August 2026, with earlier releases in July and May 2026, so it is actively maintained.

Question 8

Which civilizations can I play?

Accepted Answer

All eight: Greek, Egyptian, Celt, Persian, Roman, Babylonian, Norse and Indian, all free according to the project's site.