This real-time strategy game, originally released in 1999, challenges players to lead a civilization through a dynamic historical campaign. Available on PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, Dreamcast, and Mac, the game focuses on strategic development and military conquest across different eras.

Core Gameplay

At its heart, the game involves managing resources, constructing towns, and raising armies to dominate opponents. Players advance their chosen civilization through four distinct ages: the Dark Age, the Feudal Age, the Castle Age, and the Imperial Age. Each age unlocks new units, structures, and technologies, providing a progressive sense of development and strategic options.

Advancement and Strategy

Advancing to a new age requires players to construct specific buildings and expend resources, typically food and gold. This system encourages careful resource management and strategic planning. The game offers multiple paths to victory, including military domination, economic supremacy, and diplomatic maneuvering. Players can choose to overwhelm opponents with military force, establish lucrative trade routes, or employ diplomacy and subterfuge to achieve their objectives.

Civilizations

Players select from over ten different civilizations, each with unique strengths, units, and technologies. This variety allows for diverse playstyles and strategic approaches, enhancing replayability and strategic depth.

Key Features

The game's focus on historical progression, combined with its blend of resource management, town building, and military strategy, provides a comprehensive and engaging experience. The availability of multiple victory conditions and diverse civilizations ensures that players can tailor their approach to suit their preferences.