Age of Empires is a critically acclaimed real-time strategy (RTS) franchise developed originally by Ensemble Studios and published by Xbox Game Studios. From its humble beginnings in 1997 to its modern Definitive Editions and Age of Empires IV, the series has brought historical and mythical warfare to life for millions of players around the world.
With over 25 million copies sold, AoE is more than a game series—it’s a multi-generational phenomenon that helped define the RTS genre.
Age of Empires – Original Trailer ( How it used to be )
What Is Age of Empires About?
Each Age of Empires game is set during a different historical period or region. The series emphasizes economic management, base-building, resource gathering, and commanding large armies to dominate rivals. The core gameplay revolves around advancing through Ages (from Stone to Imperial), unlocking better technologies, units, and buildings with each upgrade.
What makes the franchise unique is its educational yet entertaining focus on real civilizations and actual historical conflicts—from the Roman Empire to the Mongol invasions and European colonization of the Americas.
Is Age of Empires Worth Playing?
Definitely. Here’s why the series continues to thrive after nearly 30 years:
-
- Accessible yet deep gameplay: Perfect for both newcomers and hardcore strategy fans.
- Rich historical detail: Real civilizations, real leaders, and real events.
- Tons of content: Over a dozen mainline and spin-off titles.
- Modern support: With Definitive Editions and cross-platform multiplayer, old games feel fresh.
- Active esports and modding communities: Keeps the experience alive and evolving.
- Variety of time periods: From ancient empires to colonial powers and even mythological spin-offs.
Whether you’re reliving history in Age of Empires II or forging your future in Age of Empires IV, the franchise remains a timeless classic.
Chronological Game Release Timeline
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 1997 | Age of Empires |
| 1998 | Age of Empires: The Rise of Rome |
| 1999 | Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings |
| 2000 | Age of Empires II: The Conquerors |
| 2002 | Age of Mythology |
| 2003 | Age of Mythology: The Titans |
| 2005 | Age of Empires III |
| 2006 | Age of Empires III: The WarChiefs |
| 2007 | Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties |
| 2011 | Age of Empires Online |
| 2013 | Age of Empires II: HD Edition |
| 2014 | Age of Mythology: Extended Edition |
| 2018 | Age of Empires: Definitive Edition |
| 2019 | Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition |
| 2020 | Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition |
| 2021 | Age of Empires IV |
| 2024 | Age of Empires II – Victors and Vanquished, AoE Mobile |
| 2025 | Age of Empires IV – Knights of Cross and Rose |
Main Titles at a Glance
Age of Empires (1997)
-
- Covers ancient history from the Stone Age to the Iron Age.
- Includes 12 civilizations.
- Expansion: The Rise of Rome.
Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings (1999)
-
- Set during the Middle Ages.
- Iconic civilizations like the Britons, Vikings, and Byzantines.
- Expansions: The Conquerors, HD/DE expansions (The Forgotten, African Kingdoms, Rise of the Rajas).
Age of Empires III (2005)
-
- Covers colonization of the Americas and early modern warfare.
- Features the unique Home City mechanic.
- Expansions: The WarChiefs, The Asian Dynasties.
Age of Empires IV (2021)
-
- Returns to the Middle Ages with modern graphics and mechanics.
- Civilizations include the Abbasids, Mongols, and Byzantines.
- Continues to receive expansions and balance updates.
Notable Spin-offs and Variations
-
- Age of Mythology (2002): Combines RTS gameplay with gods, monsters, and myths.
- Age of Empires Online (2011): MMO-style RTS with cooperative quests.
- Mythologies / Age of Kings DS versions: Turn-based adaptations for mobile and handheld devices.
- Castle Siege & World Domination: Mobile adaptations with base-building mechanics.
FAQ About Age of Empires
Q: Which Age of Empires game is the best?
A: Most players consider Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition to be the best due to its balance, massive content, and thriving multiplayer community.
Q: Can I still play multiplayer today?
A: Yes! The Definitive Editions of AoE I, II, and III are all active on Steam and Xbox, with modern multiplayer support and regular updates.
Q: Is Age of Mythology part of the AoE universe?
A: Yes, it’s considered a spin-off but shares the same engine and style. It focuses on myth rather than history.
Q: What’s new in Age of Empires IV?
A: AoE IV offers modern visuals, 4 historical campaigns, dynamic siege mechanics, and active seasonal multiplayer content.
Q: Is there a mobile version?
A: Yes! Age of Empires Mobile launched in 2024, offering a touch-based RTS experience for iOS and Android.
Conclusion: An Empire That Stands the Test of Time
From humble villagers gathering berries to massive empires waging war across continents, the Age of Empires series has taught and entertained millions of players across generations. Whether you’re diving into the nostalgic roots of Age of Empires II or embracing the cinematic scale of Age of Empires IV, the franchise proves that strategy never goes out of style.
With ongoing support, future expansions, and a passionate fanbase, Age of Empires remains the crown jewel of historical RTS gaming. Now is the perfect time to build your empire—again or for the first time.
Age of Empires IV – Official Gameplay Trailer ( How it is today )
Thank you for reading and make sure to bookmark the site and follow up on the newest posts!