Age of Empires II - The Age of Kings Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This game is nothing special. Just another RTS game taking place in Medieval Europe where you try to advance through the ages and build a strong army to wipe the floor with your opponent.

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Product Description:
Choose the path to greatness: Will it be an economic path created out of craftmanship, trade, and technology? Or a military route of seige and naval warfare? Command one of 13 civilizations - including the Franks, Japanese, Byzantines, Vikings, Mongols, and Celts. Each has unique attributes, units, buildings, and technologies based on its historical counterpart. Battle alongside heroes of the day - Who will fight for victory under your flag? With historically - based campaigns it could be Joan of Arc, William Wallace, Genghis Khan, Saladin, or Barbarossa. Conquer a worthy opponent over the MSN Gaming Zone, LAN or Modem. Or a nearly human artificial intelligence opponent in single player mode. OPERATING SYSTEM: Windows 95 / 98 / NT. WINDOWS SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Multimedia PC w/pentium 166MHz processor.32MB RAM.200MB hard disk space;add'l 100MB hard disk space for swap file.SVGA monitor supporting 800x600 resolution.Local bus video card supports 800x600,256 color resolution&2MB video memory.Quadspeed CDROM drive.Microsoft mouse or compatible.28.8Kbps modem for Internet or head to head play.To play on the MS Gaming Zone need to have either Web browsers:Internet Explorer 3.02 software or Netscape Communicator 4.0.Audio board w/speakers or headphones rec'd.

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Age of Empires II: The Conquerors Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)It is soooooooooo fun and I would say it is one of the best games in the world!

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Product Description:
This software is BRAND NEW. Packaging may differ slightly from the stock photo above. Please click on our logo above to see over 15,000 titles in stock.

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Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties Expansion Pack Review

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(More customer reviews)Yes you need Age of Empire III and that is because this is an expansion pack, this means you add the levels of this game to the original game.In anycase this is a great expansion pack and truly adds to the Age of Empires series.Plus the computer game play is well managed a big plus.Well worth your money even if you have to buy the base pack.

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Product Description:
AGE OF EMPIRES III: THE ASIAN DYNASTIES

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Empires: Dawn of the Modern World Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)After playing some other strategy games online, I decided that I was ready to actually buy one.So I was off in search of finding one that was good, and while I was at the store one day came across Empires: Dawn of the Modern World.Unlike most games that I have bought in the past, I didn't install this game untill about two weeks after purchasing.However when I did install it I got an error message saying that the game key was invalid.I tried many times, still the samething.So in my frustration I called customer service.At first the customer service rep asked if I was typing in caps or lower case, then he told my to email them my system details.Come to find out I didn't have the right video card that supported the graphics for this game.I have since upgraded my video card and reinstalled the games...and have been playing ever since.
Despite having to upgrade my computer just to use this game might seem to be a hassle to same, but hey, after all I would have had to of upgraded anyway.So now for the real meat and potatoes.
As I have mentioned earlier I had played other war strategy games online(renting them online), I have played both Rise of Nations and Age of Empires II using this service.And I must say that Empires is a better game as far as graphics and game play is concerned.The 3D graphics are very good and you can zoom in closer then in other games.
Now for the game play, Empires goes from Medieval up to World War II.You can chose between England(UK for WWI and WWII), the Franks(France), Korea, China, the United States, Russia and Germany.Each civilization is unique, for example if you chose England and start off during the Medieval Age then you can build a mind on a site that has either gold or stone.However if you chose the Franks, you will have to have several villagers mind the gold instead.Building walls around your town center is highly recommended if you don't want your civilization to be invaded.There are three campaigns to choose from: Richard the lionheart, Captain Xi, and General Patton, these campaigns take a long time to complete...I still haven't finished Richard's campaign yet.
I would have given Empires a whole five stars, but there are a few things that I think that it can improve upon, thus only four stars.The civilizations are only available up to a certain point; if starting from the Medieval time and you chose England, by the time that you reach WWI you will have to choose a Modern civilization i.e. the UK.Another thing that I feel is a disappointment in this game is lack of options for the civilizations.Example being you can't choose the USA to start off during the Medieval time (for obivous reasons) but it would be nice if they had the colonies as an option instead of the USA only being available from WWI and on.
Overall I recommend Empires: Dawn of the Modern World, despite it's few draw backs.I have certainly enjoy playing this game as a single player and as a multiplayer, playing against friends.

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Product Description:
Empires: Dawn of the Modern World is a unique real-time strategy game that puts you in command of a millennium of human history!

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The Ultimate Strategy Archives Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you can find a copy of this, =get= it. I bought it (twice)for a high price and a low price.It's a great value either way,and a good choice for the casual gamer (who doesn't mind getting hopelessly addicted).
The original Civilization is here, as is Heroes of Might and Magic (I). Both of these games are =still= more addictive and playable than 98% of games released. In addition, you get Conquest of the New World Deluxe, the first X-Com and Railroad Tycoon (all on one CD). All of these games are classics; most have had successful sequels. (But Heroes of Might And Magic I, in particular, is still as playable as, and a pleasant break from its sequels.)
On top of that you get three other CDs with Jagged Alliance, M.A.X and Dark Colony. Dark Colony is both the newest the least inspired of this auspicious group (and the hardest to get working) but it still has some very cool features.
Get it while you can folks.END

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Master Of Olympus: Zeus W/ Poseidon Exp. Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)My daughter and I are addicted.Best city building game I have ever used. Easy and not over detailed, takes plenty of planning so you have to play the game multiple times to get it right. ALways a challenge no matter how many time youplay it. Once you play you are hooked. DOnt bother with Pharaoh, its the same game, different graphics. I find the other city building games too detailed or stress too much war/battling.This would have been a great game in 7th grade to to learn all the mythology. They need a NOrse version!

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Product Description:
Zeus: Master of Olympus is the sixth game in the award-winning Impressions City Building Series, which has sold over two million copies worldwide. Zeus: Master of Olympus, set in a mythological ancient Greece, serves up a world filled with the likes of Hercules, Athena, Ares, Medusa, the Minotaur, and many others. Players build and rule Greek city-states while summoning heroes and gods to protect their land from monsters and other Greek cities. Easy to learn, and quick to get in and out of, Zeus promises to be one of the most fun city-building games of 2000.Poseidon: Zeus Official Expansion: Return to ancient Greece and rule Atlantis as described by Plato! In Poseidon: Zeus Official Expansion, you'll rule an advanced civilization that built monumental pyramids, sanctuaries, observatories, and great libraries. You'll summon Bellerophon and Atalanta, and battle the terrifying Chimera. You'll meet ancient civilizations from both sides of the Atlantic, and decide to trade or conquer. Poseidon: Zeus Official Expansion features new gods, heroes, monsters, and resources. Play more than 45 exciting episodes in six epic adventures. Conquer or trade with Mayans, Egyptians, Phoenicians, and more. Meet such new gods as Atlas and Hera. Poseidon offers unlimited play. You can even design your own myths with a simple yet powerful Adventure Editor.

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Cossacks: Back To War Review

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(More customer reviews)Great game, very good graphics much better than Age of Empires, Civilization and etc. Lots of nations to choose from and a lot of missions that make it fun. Of course playing against a live opponent, instead of AI, is even better!

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Product Description:
Return to the brutal era that defined modern Europe as you control the legendary Cossacks! / Rated T: Teen

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Age of Empires III: The War Chiefs Expansion Pack Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been playing this game since it was first released and added the expansion pack as quickly as it came out. I just don't get tired of it. I highly recommend it.

The newest release builds on the past two with all of the fantastic strategy included in the earlier games. The new improvements are vast and I'm sure that other users and reviews will be able to expand on them more directly. However, if you've played AoE games in the past, this one will not disappoint. They've dropped some of the more esoteric and mundane steps (like villagers constantly returning to town center) and have added simplifying features but haven't sacrificed any of the strategy. I think version three finally brings it all together.

There are a few features which are lacking, however, the scenario game play is a little weak in AoE III and I didn't see any addition in the expansion pack. Also, the scenario creator has so much potential for active users to build situations that others might like to play but requires so much time and effort as to be useless.

On the whole, I certainly recommend this game and the expansion pack to anyone who is interested in strategy games.

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Product Description:

MODEL- MS-CD25988WI VENDOR- MICROSOFT

FEATURES- Age of Empires III: The Warchiefs
Try the new expansion pack for the best-selling real-time strategy
title of 2005--Age of Empires III from Ensemble Studios and
Microsoft Game Studios.
Microsoft Age of Empires III: The WarChiefs--the new expansion pack
for Age of Empires III--will engage gamers of all ages and types in
epic warfare in the Americas where they will lead the proud native
civilizations to expand their empire and fight for control of the
Americas.
* Playable Native American civilizations
Lead one of three proud Native American civilizations. Each civilization
has its own unique units buildings and a distinct approach to their
Home City feature.
* Gripping new single-player campaign
Play through 15 new missions with a rich story and a cast of characters
that interact with real historic figures and events.
* Enhancements to European civilizations
The expansion pack will also provide exciting additions to existing
European civilizations with new Home City content new units and new
ways to look at your card deck.
* Extended gameplay
Experience more of everything including new random maps in unique
locations in the Americas additional native allies and units more
statistics tracking and new ways to play.

REQUIREMENTS- 1.4 GHz or faster processor
256 MB of RAM
2 GB of available hard-disk space
Windows XP MANUFACTURER WARRANTY:90 DAYS

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Age of Empires 2 Official Expansion: The Conquerors Review

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(More customer reviews)the expansion pack features 5 new civ's, maya, aztecs, huns, koreans,and spanish.each with its own unique buildings type(imagine mayas and aztecs builduings, cool)There are 3 campaigns and one pack of scenarios namedbattles of the conquerors, the campaigns are atilla the hun where you getto conquer gaul and then maybe even the whole rome, in el cid you must joinforces with moors and fight against castilla and fight against fanaticalberber horsemen, and last but not least, in montezuma you get to fight offthje invaders that are much better armed and shielded, can they defeatthem, or will they fall before the invaders, in addition to that the gamewill have 11 new units,conquistador,jaguar man,tarkan and 26 newtechnologies including a special technology for each civilisation. Thevillagers are now smarter,for example they'll start gathering wood afterbuilding a lumber camp, farm queing, you just give enough money to it, andvillagers will build farms untill money run off.
Ram's are nowtransports, garrizon units inside it to increase speed and defend unitsinside. ship formations,you can also send commands to friendly computerplayers. and finally new temperature zones including tropics, and ice. Thatis a very interesting game...

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Product Description:
Age Of Empires II: The Conquerors takes you int the heart of warfare as you fight to buils a new civilization! Several new interfaces and features let you concentrate on tactics and resource managementNew multiplayer games like Wonder Race(see who builds a Wonder first) and Defend The WonderRelive the time of the conquerors with this exciting strategy game!

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Age of Empires III: The War Chiefs Expansion Pack Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I received the software quickly from the 3rd party dealer. When I installed it, there was a problem prohibiting the Standard User from playing the game, although an Admin could play. The User got a message saying a DATAPK file wouldn't load. I called Destineer; they were aware of the problem and were working on a fix. Within 24 hours, I received a courteous email with detailed instructions on how to configure the game properly.

Here are the instructions to configure AOE III/Warchiefs to run properly on Mac OS X:

1. Login Admin.
2. Find the original AOE III icon. Click Command+I to "Get Info."
3. In Get Info, go to Ownership and Permissions. Click Details. Under Others, select Read & Write from the drop-down menu. Close the AOE III Get Info window.
4. Control+Click on AOE III. Select Show PackageContent. This opens a Finder window containing a Contents folder. Click Command+I on the Contents folder to Get Info.
5. In the Contents Get Info window, go to Ownership and Permissions. Click Details. If the System is the Owner, then change the Owner's name to the Admin Username. The group should then become Admin. Go to Others and select Read & Write from the drop-down menu. When the system asks you "Are you sure you want to apply the selected owner, group and permissions to all the enclosed contents?" click OK. Close the Finder window.
6. Now go to the AOE III/Warchiefs icon. Click Command+I to "Get Info."
7. In Get Info, go to Ownership and Permissions. Click Details. Under Others, select Read & Write from the drop-down menu. Close the Warchiefs Get Info window.
8. Control+Click on Warchiefs. Select Show PackageContent. This opens a Finder window containing a Contents folder. Click Command+I on the Contents folder to Get Info.
9. In the Contents Get Info window, go to Ownership and Permissions. Click Details. If the System is the Owner, then change the Owner's name to the Admin Username. The group should then become Admin. Go to Others and select Read & Write from the drop-down menu. When the system asks you "Are you sure you want to apply the selected owner, group and permissions to all the enclosed contents?" click OK. Close the Finder window.
10. Logout Admin. Login Standard User and make sure the game loads correctly.

Big thanks to Matt H. at Destineer QA for the help!

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Product Description:
The WarChiefs is the new expansion pack for the best-selling real-time strategy (RTS) title, Age of Empires III. Age of Empires III: The WarChiefs will engage gamers of all ages and types in epic warfare in the Americas where they will lead the proud, playable native civilizations to expand their empire and fight for control of the Americas.

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Age of Empires: Gold Edition Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased the original Age of Empires years ago when it first came out, and the Roman expansion when it became available, so I have the equivalent of the so-called "Gold Edition".
Out of all the games I own, this is the most addictive.Time just flies by when I'm playing this game, which isn't always a good thing.This IS a good thing when my flight has been delayed however.With my laptop, extra lithium-ion batteries, and Age of Empires, airport delays are not nearly as painful as they used to be.
To create a game that remains addictive and interesting over the years is quite an achievement.Most video games become boring after a while, either because they are too frustrating and difficult, or they are too easy or repetitive.Finding a balance that is both entertaining and challenging is tough, and these guys have done it.I personally love the random games.The environment really dictates the strategy you should use, as it does in real life, and the possibilities are nearly endless.You can also design your own scenarios, which kills a lot of time and allows you to experiment with environmental conditions that the random map generator would never come up with.
The Roman expansion didn't add much, but it also didn't cost much.The most important feature I was looking for was the ability to put gates in my walls.In Age of Empires, if you build a wall around your civilization, you can not get out without destroying part of the wall.As I understand it, this has been corrected in Age of Kings, which I have not gotten yet.
If you enjoy real time strategy, you're gonna love Age of Empires!

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Product Description:
Microsoft Age of Empires is an epic, real-time strategy game spanning 10,000 years, where players are the guiding spirit in the evolution of a small Stone Age tribe. Starting with minimal resources, players are challenged to build their tribes into great civilizations. Choose from one of several ways to win the game: by conquering enemy civilizations, exploring the "known" world, or accumulating wealth to achieve economic victory.
But don't stop there. Age of Empires: The Rise of Rome Expansion starts off where Age of Empires left off. Continue your gameplay with several new features, including four additional civilizations, several unique units, and three entirely new campaigns, showcasing the rise of Rome.

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Age of Empires Collector's Edition Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Honestly, I believe that this packaging was made for parents who've heard their kids say the words "I want AGE OF EMPIRES", and who, unfamiliar with the series, will think that more is better.
Truth is, once you play AOE II and its expansion pack, "The Conquerors",you'll stick with that version.The original AOE (and its "Rise of Rome" expansion pack) will just gather dust.It's not that AOE and "Rise of Rome" are bad games.Obviously, they're great games--which is why AOE was one of the highest-selling PC games ever.But the improvements madein AOE II and "The Conquerors" mean that game is simply more fun. Make no mistake: it's no bargain that you're getting AOE and "The Rise of Rome" along with AOE II.These are units Microsoft simply couldn't sell after AOE II came out.
Still, it's possible this double-pack is priced right.The list price of this Collector's Edition is exactly the same as the list on AOE II and "The Conquerors" combined.Essentially, Microsoft is throwing the two older titles in for free.However, Microsoft very frequently offers rebates when buying any of these titles separately.As far as I know, this Collectors Edition offers no such rebate.I'd therefore highly recommend that you see whether any rebate promotions are currently being offered by Microsoft before buying this Collector's Edition.If there aren't any, go ahead and get this Collector's Edition.But if there's a rebate, you really are better off buying just AOE II and "The Conquerors" separately--and putting the rebate in the bank.

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Product Description:
Age of Empires is a real-time strategy game where players build a great civilization out of an Ice Age tribe over a period of 10,000 years. Players accomplish this by exploring their surroundings, conquering other civilizations, and accumulating wealth. Key elements include building and controlling units and managing resources.
Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings starts the player out in the Dark Ages, roughly when Age of Empires ends. The goal remains the same: use advanced technology and troops to establish your civilization's dominance. But now the player has better toys: each of the 13 civilizations has unique buildings, soldiers, and advantages. The Teutons have knights, for instance, while the Vikings have berserkers. Winning the game requires military dominance or the construction of wonders of the world. The single-player game is fun, but most players love Age of Empires II for its wildly popular multiplayer component. Thousands of civilizations rise and fall every day as gamers around the world compete in matches over the Internet.
This bundle includes Age of Empires: Gold Edition, containing the original Age of Empires and Age of Empires: The Rise of Rome Expansion, plus Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings and Age of Empires II: The Conqueror's Expansion. The bundle is a great way for fans of the series to keep all the titles in one place, while for newbies it is less expensive than buying all the titles separately.

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Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties Expansion Pack Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a solid expansion to the AGE OF EMPIRES III, the one you will play for hours at end. Although the 3rd installment of AoE was the weakest of the series (I personally enjoyed much more AGE OF EMPIRES II), I have to admit that I was really pleased by this expansion - and cannot complain but about minor things.

After the lukewarm WARCHIEFS, which introduced Native American civilizations, this expansion introduces three major Asian civilizations (Japanese, Chinese, and Indian) - with their corresponding campaigns.
The Japanese campaign takes place during the Shogunate civil wars. The Chinese campaign (trying to avoid any...political shoals) is on the fictional discovery of the New World by the Chinese (I would have preferred it to be about the unification of China under the Qin dynasty - but, then again, that would make it quite similar to the Japanese campaign). Finally, the Indian campaign is centered on the uprooting of the British East-India Trading Company.
All three campaigns follow a scenario that will surprise you at many points (and frustrate you in some others). Nevertheless, keep in mind that this is an RTS game - so don't expect a JAMES CLAVELL novel plot twists.

The graphics are just a notch better than WARCHIEFS, the interface has received only minor retouching strokes and one can rely on finding, once more, the known exceptional gameplay. Not only are the new units carefully balanced, they can be seamlessly incorporated with the previous AGE OF EMPIRES III units. Stacking Samurai infantry against Highlanders anyone? (yes, only one can survive in the end...)

My only complain is the music: AoE's are of the games that are played for endless hours. So music is important not to be tiresome. This being the ASIAN DYNASTIES expansion, I felt that the game developers missed the chance of introducing some new and distinctly Japanese, Chinese and Indian tunes. Well, one can always bring his own music I guess...

One of the best expansions this year.

RECOMMENDED.

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Product Description:
MicrosoftAge of Empires III:Asian Dynasties Expansion Pack Win32 .Rule powerful and exotic Japanese, Chinese and Indian civilications of the East; battle with Samurai, Chinese Banner Armies and devastating war elephant troops; build powerful wonders such as the Great Wall and TajMahal to advance in Age.

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Age of Empires: Mythologies Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)**** NOTE *** in this review I will be comparing Age of Empire: Mythologies to theAge of Empires: The Age of Kings both are Nintendo DS versions. My thought process is if you liked the original you will have interest in the sequel.

Age of Empires: The Age of Kings is my favorite game for the Nintendo DS. In fact, it is about the only game that I play on a consistent basis. The problem is that I have beat the game dozens of times and I have been eagerly awaiting a new challenge. Age of Empires: Mythologies offers me new albeit slightly modified challenges.

The differences- (I am listing just a few)

- Age of Empires: Mythologies lack the overall depth of Age of Kings - there are fewer technologies, soldiers, heros, maps.... and so on. Basically, the newer version lacks the overall depth of the previous.
- Soldiers/Heros do not gain "Experience" by fighting additional battles. In fact, they stay at the same fighting level until you advance to a new
- Mythologies has better graphics that the original.
- Heros only have one special ability instead of four.
- Wi-fi abilities have been added to Mythologies.
- There additional ways to win instead of just "total conquest". By capturing and keeping temples you can earn a "Temple Victory".
- When you "Age-up" in Mythologies you add a new God to your temple. Each God has special powers and abilities that you can research.
- Only three civilizations - Greeks, Egyptians, and the Norse to choose from.Things that are similar
- Battle sequences are nearly identical.
- building farms,town,mines
-Both games offers campaigns and features that can be unlocked.

**** NOTES TO PARENTS****

Age of Empires is a war based game, however it is not overly violent. The game does not feature any type of bloodshed. Depending on your child's interest in Mythology the game can be educational since many of the characters and scenarios are pulled straight of ancient literature.

In terms of gameplay - Age of Empires (both versions) are somewhat complicated and may be difficult for kids that are not strong reader or if they do enjoy analytical problems.

******************************

Final Verdict - If I was on an island and could only choose one Nintedo DS game it would be Age of Empires; Age of Kings, since it is a game that offers more depth. However, Age of Empires: Mythologies offers a nice addition and has the added benefit of online play.

4 stars

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Product Description:
Inspired by the hit PC title and built on the game engine behind the critically acclaimed Age of Empires: Age of Kings, Age of Empires: Mythologies will be the ultimate portable tactical strategy game with its refined gameplay, inspired design, fantastic multiplayer, and extensive replay value. Age of Empires: Mythologies for the Nintendo DS is a compelling new turn-based strategy game that challenges players to shape the destiny of three unique cultures in a fantasy world filled with mighty heroes, legendary monsters, and powerful gods. Players will lead their Egyptian, Greek, and Norse heroes to victory by raising massive armies, waging war, exploring new frontiers, and advancing through three distinct ages that offer fantastic new units, abilities, and god powers like lighting storms, earthquakes, and devastating plagues that players can call on to smite their enemies.

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Age of Empires 2 Gold Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Age of Kings (AoK) along with its expansion pack, AoK:TC (The Conquerors--which we now call "AoC" when both are installed) is a superb game for either "Multiplayers" who play on-line or "Singleplayers" who don't.If a game which has a historical aspect to it which resides in the 1,000 year realm of ancient history stated has appeal for you (which isn't all 'hoked_up' with fantasy creatures), you cannot go wrong with purchasing the "Gold pack".I've been playing AoK/AoC for more than 2 years now and it still holds fascination for me... and many others that I know.Just today I was teaching one of my 10 year old grandsons about the game when he was visiting.We'll get him the Gold pack.My son introduced me to the game in Dec. '99.
Yes, in order to play AoC which epitomizes the development of the game, you need to install from both disks, first installing AoK, then removing it and installing the AoK:TC disk which you leave in the tray (it must be in there when you want to play).You can then go online to either Microsoft's or Ensemble Studios' websites for the game, Age of Kings: The Conquerors, and download the 1.0c patch which fixes any minor 'bugs' discovered and rectifies a few civilization "balancing issues" which have come up.Thus buying the Gold pack is a real good deal for anyone getting the game now as it cost me more than twice as much to have bought AoK & then AoK:TC, as they came out.
There are so many ways to play this game that it almost boggles the mind, but preferred game modes are "Conquest" followed by "Deathmatch" in popularity amongst "Agers".If you really want to learn to play the game using the various "strategies" for the 18 civilizations which Agers have developed, it's a good idea to join a good Ager gaming clan such as Tonto Clan, which caters to both Multi- and Singleplayers. You can find Tonto Clan by doing a websearch for "tontoclan1", or look for "Tonto Empire".The clan celebrates its 2nd birthday the 13th of March, 2002, so you know they aren't fly-by-nighters.And that's a good place to ask any questions one might have about the game.
A final thought:"Real Time Strategy" is a bit of a misnomer, oxymoron, in computer games as "twitch-and-bang" on the keyboard doesn't really give a person time to think, only act and react. But an aspect of AoC that makes it come closer to being enabled as a true strategy and tactics game is that you have the "Pause key" which when playing Singleplayer you can use to pause the game in progress in order to "think on it" a bit and decide what next you want to do.This brings yet another dimension to the game that most don't have.
There are other RTS 'historically based war games' which have come out since "Age", but it is surprising how many people will try them and then just keep coming back.... to AoC.And, for my money the next RTS slated to come along that might be as good or possibly better isn't projected to hit the market until Spring (if then) of 2003.
Ken aka tonto_real

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Product Description:
Age of Empires 2 Gold Edition unites the exciting game play ofboth Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings and Age of Empires2: The Conquerors Expansion plus additional content for onecompelling gaming experience. Experience real-time evolution as youbuild your civilization into a flourishing empire, from the Dark Ageto the Imperial Age. Decide whether to conquer the world throughmilitary might, commerce and diplomacy, or intrigue andregicide. There are many paths to power but only one will reignsupreme.Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings spans 1,000 years,from the fall of Rome through the Middle Ages. Players control thedestiny of one of 13 civilizations. The game keeps the epic scope ofAge of Empires' gameplay while evolving the combat and economicfeatures. Developed by Ensemble Studios, Age of Empires 2features the expertise of Bruce Shelley, co designer of Age ofEmpires and the hit strategy game Civilization.Age ofEmpires 2: The Conquerors Expansion adds five new civilizations,four new campaigns, 11 new units, 26 new technologies, real worldmaps, and much more. Experience the adventure of the SpanishConquistadors as they enter the exotic lands of the Aztecs, or relivethe destructive force of Attila's pillaging Huns. This add-on packfocuses on the armies and military thinking of a handful of history'sgreatest tacticians, including Attila the Hun, El Cid, andMontezuma. The new civilizations each have unique attributes,buildings, and technologies, such as Chinese Rocketry and PersianMahouts. You'll put hussar cavalry, kamikaze siege units, andhalberdier infantry into battle in four all-new campaigns.Play up toeight other conquerors via modem, Internet, or LAN.

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Age of Empires III: Complete Collection Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This collection of the basic game and expansions is a good value for Real Time Strategy (RTS) game players.The War Chiefs expansion is ok, campaign short, and not a lot of depth.The Asian Dynasties Expansion is a lot of fun, three campaigns (Japan, India, China), with each nation having their own wonders giving them unique special abilities.The different nations are neat, but not having a United States colonial civilization to choose from in skirmish mode is disappointing, especially after playing the campaign game in War Chiefs.The campaigns are easier to complete and have less depth than Age of Empires II (AoE2).AoE3 campaigns were overall fun, but require much less strategy to win; build one small army to defend your base and when the large army is ready to go, overwhelm the computer.

The graphics have improved, but did experienced significant lag and even game freezing at times due to ship combat on the duo-core Thinkpad, even with all graphic options reduced to minimal levels.Other than naval combat, the game played well.Not sure why the lag occurred.

There are some improvements to the game play where a single large farm can be built and no need to worry about cueing or constantly checking if there is enough wood to re-task the workers to harvest food.The use of a home city for the campaign game is really neat with special cards to provide resources, upgrades, or units.Each nation has unique units and cards.The strategy of the cards is very important, does the player want to have early age villagers to gather resources faster or hold on for the late age military units for the end game battles?This adds depth to the game.

The basic resources are still wood, gold, food, with experience for home city improvement (cards).Experience is gained from killing enemy units, destroying structures, building units, and having a trading post.

The negative about the game is the combat options.The player no longer has the option for unit formations or commands such as defend ground or hold ground.Units will rush off when attacked and baited by the enemy.Worse yet, units will stay in large massed formations when attacking artillery units, to be blown apart.The player can not select skirmish mode or defend unit mode.Your healer will rush off and attack an enemy building or unit.

Another negative is artillery units being too strong to destroy and the targeting of units.Example would be attacking a group of enemy artillery units that are in marching order.Your cavalry can attack the artillery, but somehow, even the big siege gun, will be able to unlimber and fire, killing multiple units even though they are engaged in hand to hand combat against swordsmen and cavalry.Artillery does not cause splash or collateral damage to friendly units too.So if the enemy has their infantry attacking yours in hand to hand combat, their artillery will be able to fire through them and only kill your units, not theirs.This is a frustrating factor.

As we know in history, artillery units, when attacked in hand to hand combat, can not fire, also siege cannons, take a long time to reload and can not if the crews are attacked in hand to hand combat.But in AoE3, the game has super artillery being able to unlimber and fire multiple times, killing your units before being finally subdued while under attack the entire time.The siege cannons take a lot of damage to destroy too.This is a very frustrating experience that detracts from the game.

Given lack of combat formation / options and the lag time experienced in naval combat, AoE2 and Age of Mythology are still the preferred games.The massive battles with large armies between multiple players were a lot fun in AoE2 as each side slugged it out, but for some reason, lacking the same level of intensity and excitement in AoE3.

Unfortunately, Ensemble Studios was closed by Microsoft, which is not a good sign for us computer gamers.If Microsoft closes their only computer game developer, it becomes very clear that their focus is to make money from console games.The loss of Ensemble Studios means that we computer strategy game players will have fewer quality games to purchase and play in the future.

Thank you Ensemble Studios, your games have been fun to play and AoE3 was another enjoyable experience.

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Product Description:
Age of Empires III will offer gamers the next level of realism, with advanced battle physics and unparalleled visual detail.

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Age Of Empires Collector's Edition (Limited Edition) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First of all, I would just like to say that this is such a good deal. I mean, ten dollars for the first two games AND both of their expansion packs? You can get "Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings Gold Edition" with its expansion "The Conquerors" for 20 dollars, or get this set, which includes all that AND the original Age of Empires with the "Rise of Rome" expansion for ten dollars less! Think about it. Ten less dollars for much more? Its a miracle in the form of a computer game set if you ask me. Ah, on to the games themselves.

Age of Empires:

A true classic, this game has to be one of the most fun games ever put out. Though the graphics are nothing dazzling, who cares? I have spent endless hours on this game, and beaten every campaign in it. If you don't want to play a full campaign, the random map games are equally as fun! The replay value of this game is also amazing. It seems more fun every time you play it, and its impossible to get sick of! The only part where you may get a teeny weeny bit anxious to move on, is toward the end of the Babylonian campaign. Don't get me wrong, it is still fun as ever, just not quite as action-packed as the rest of them. I give this game two thumbs up!

Age of Empires: The Rise of Rome Expansion

Ok, as fun as the first one was, beleive it or not, this one is even better! The gameplay is the same as "Age of Empires" and its mostly the same, except that there are new campaigns, new countries, new upgrades and some cool new units (camel swordsman, for instance). This game has a little more action in it. My favorite level has to be "Struggle for Sicily" in the Carthage campaign. This level is incredible, like many of the others. Some people say that "The Rise of Rome" isn't as good as Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings", but if you ask me, I think that "The Rise of Rome" is better than "The Age of Kings". In all, "The Rise of Rome Expansion" is as good as the original "Age of Empires", but because of the new units, and the new level layouts, is actually better. Two more thumbs up!

Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings

After the success of the first "Age of Empires" Microsoft thought they would continue the series, (thank goodness for us!) "Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings" is a knights-and-castles era version of the original. Gameplay is mostly the same, with improved graphics. Most everything is the same as the last one, because your main goals are still these: get lots of villagers, gather food, gold, stone, and wood, build an army, upgrade if you can, and win. There are some pretty cool units in this game as well, and the campaigns are awesome! The first campaign is about William Wallace (Braveheart, anyone?) and the Scottish army fighting against the Brits. Sadly, they used this story as a learning campaign, and its really easy. I think they should have made it an advanced campaign, but oh well. Its just as fun either way. There is also a Joan of Arc campaign, a Barbarossa campaign (the German knights are so cool in that one!) and many more. This game is well worth the money, and, just like the previous games, is very addictive! Two more thumbs way up!

Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings "The Conquerors Expansion"

This game takes "Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings" and kicks it up yet another notch! In this expansion, you can play a South American campaign, an Attila the Hun campaign, and a few more. I don't have much more to say about this game, because basically all it is is "Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings" with a few more units, and some cool campaigns. I enjoyed this one slightly more than the original "Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings", especially because of the South American campaign (the Eagle-Warriors rock!) So, as you guessed, another two thumbs up!

In all, this pack is better than a steal. Saying its a steal would be incorrect, because its better than a steal. You get countless, and I mean countless hours of awesome action for only ten bucks! This is a must own game, and even if you think it doesn't look cool, buy it. You will get so much entertainment out of it, and I would pay 50 dollars for this if I had to. Ten dollars is just so good! Well, this review is way too long already, but I hope you got some useful info about the game from this review. I have not yet purchased "Age of Empires 3", but the moment I can, I will. I am sure it will be very good game, and i hope and pray that Microsoft never stops putting out "Age of Empires" games!

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Product Description:
Control 10,000 years of human history and rewrite it to suit you.Lead your civilization to glory across the Millennia by choosing your path to greatness.Battle alongside legendary heroes as you conquer rival empires.Discover new technologies and chart your course well - from the Stone Age to the Imperial Age - and your legacy shall live forever!

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