Age of Empires is the legendary real-time strategy franchise that pioneered historical warfare gaming and has remained the gold standard for civilization-building RTS experiences since Microsoft's original masterpiece launched in 1997. Developed initially by Ensemble Studios and later continued by various talented studios including Relic Entertainment, this acclaimed series allows players to guide authentic historical civilizations from the Stone Age through modern times, commanding everything from ancient Egyptian chariots to medieval knights and colonial-era cannons across meticulously researched time periods. Known for its perfect balance of accessible gameplay and strategic depth, Age of Empires features the classic RTS formula of resource gathering, base construction, technological advancement, and large-scale military conflicts, enhanced by historically accurate units, buildings, and technologies that provide educational value alongside entertainment. The franchise includes the beloved original Age of Empires covering ancient civilizations, the critically acclaimed Age of Empires II focusing on the medieval period with iconic campaigns like Joan of Arc and William Wallace, Age of Empires III exploring colonial expansion in the Americas, and the modern revival Age of Empires IV that brings cutting-edge graphics and refined mechanics to the classic formula. Each entry features diverse playable civilizations with unique units, technologies, and architectural styles that reflect their real-world counterparts, from the British longbowmen and Mongol cavalry to Aztec jaguar warriors and Ottoman janissaries. The series has maintained a thriving competitive esports scene, robust modding community, and educational partnerships with schools worldwide, while recent Definitive Edition remasters have introduced enhanced graphics, additional content, and quality-of-life improvements for modern audiences. With its combination of strategic base building, epic historical battles, cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, and engaging single-player campaigns that bring history to life, the Age of Empires franchise appeals to strategy gaming enthusiasts, history buffs, competitive gamers, and anyone seeking intellectually stimulating gameplay that celebrates human civilization's greatest military achievements and technological innovations across the ages.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 by our customers1,220 reviews
Reviews are compiled from verified review providers
