Here are the facts: Age of Empires was a great game when it first came out. It is a lot of fun too. But compared to recent games such as its sequel, it doesn't quite measure up.
This is the latest in the genre of real time strategy games, this time from Microsoft. The game is very similar to Civilization in terms of gameplay, with some distinct differences in terms of concept. You play a series of missions, which partially build on the previous missions, and have somewhat of an historical context. You may have different starting positions, but for many, you start with "stone age" technology, and a few units. You have to gather resources (food, wood, gold and stone), build buildings (ranging from houses, barracks, temples, etc.), and develop your armed forces for protection and assault. You will increase in technology and capability over time.

The most noticable thing about the game is the graphics. The game is from a 3D isometric perspective (top down from a slant), and the graphics are incredibly detailed and well done. Whether it is the stone from your catapault, the shadow of an eagle, or a whale surfacing at sea, the graphics are consistantly some of the best I've seen in a game like this.

The tactical piece of the game is good, and certainly engaging, as I could attest for at 3:00am this morning when I finally turned it off. The only problem I see here is a complaint I have with all such games. There comes a point at which you have destroyed the enemy, and wiped out his ability to resist. But you still have to wade through and destroy the remaining buildings. I'd like to see an enemy that would eventually admit the futility in going on, and surrender. Make for a much more fun game.

Still, a great game. The best I've played in a while.