Without a doubt the best strategy game ever. Combines all the best elements of Civilization, Risk, and Outpost, plus the influence of so many other fabulous games before it. The improvements from Age of Empire's I are fantastic! Could use a few minor improvements, but should definitely be in any gamer's library.

The game works on two spectacular levels; single player and multiplayer:

In general, you start with a young and poor civilization. On a complex map of resources and topography, you must build up your civilization using workers that you create to gather resources. Build soldiers, siege weapons, navy, and priests to ward off enemy attacks. When your army gets large enough, attack.

If you are playing single player, you have many options. You could begin a campaign (an epic story of battle) and build a civilization up to victory. Campaigns include Joan of Arc, Genghis Kahn, The William Wallace Learning Campaign, and more. Or, you could play versus the computer in the style of Random Map (you set the guidelines), Regicide (kill the enemy king), or Death Match (you get the idea). Or, you can edit maps and scenarios you customize the game you want to play.

Multiplayer can be set up by direct connection, modem connection, LAN network, or over the web at MSN Game Zone where you can match your skills with those of thousands of other gamers worldwide. The options are endless. Hours of entertainment for so little money.

This game is a must have.