Game

Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings

1999 · PC (Microsoft Windows) · Mac · Dreamcast · PlayStation 2 · Real Time Strategy (RTS) · Strategy

83IGDB player score
1,032 ratings

Previously Take

An 83 average from 1,032 ratings: not perfect, but the kind of game people keep recommending anyway. Slow-burn strategy: historical, warfare, tough calls, and the sweet pain of one more turn. A full single-player game with a multiplayer side that refuses to die.

About this game

Take control of a powerful civilization. Lead them through 1000 years of the Middle Ages to riches and greatness. Will you Intimidate the world into following you by using military force? Rule the world with honor and nobility by using commerce and diplomacy? Or Underhandedly seize power through conspiracy, deception and regicide? There are many paths to power, there can only be one ruler!

Age of Empires II is a real-time strategy game that focuses on building towns, gathering resources, and creating armies to defeat opponents. Players conquer rival towns and empires as they advance one of 13 civilizations through four "Ages": the Dark Age, the Feudal Age, the Castle Age (being the High Middle Ages), and the Imperial Age, reminiscent of the Renaissance—a 1000-year timeframe. Advancing to a new Age unlocks new units, structures, and technologies, but players must first build certain buildings from their current age and then pay a sum of resources (typically food and gold).