Released in 2005, this real-time strategy (RTS) game is available on PC (Microsoft Windows) and Mac platforms. The game transports players to the historical period of 1500–1850, picking up where Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings left off. As a European power, you're tasked with exploring, colonizing, and conquering North and South America. The game offers both a single-player campaign and random map scenarios.

Gameplay and Objectives

At its core, the gameplay involves managing resources, constructing bases, training armies, and engaging in combat with rival civilizations. You advance through different ages, unlocking new technologies and units to strengthen your empire. Victory can be achieved through military conquest, economic dominance, or strategic alliances.

Story and Campaign

The single-player campaign unfolds through the story of the fictional Black family, spanning three generations in a series of three "Acts." Each act presents you with specific objectives, such as destroying enemy structures or securing key locations. Instead of playing as one of the standard civilizations, you control unique factions tied to the character or period of each Act, including the Knights of St. John, John Black's Mercenaries, and the United States.

Act I: Blood

Set in the late 16th century, you play as Morgan Black, a commander of the Knights of Saint John, defending their stronghold on Malta from the Ottoman Empire. The quest leads to the New World in search of the Lake of the Moon and the Fountain of Youth, pursued by a secret society.

Act II: Ice

Taking place during the French and Indian War, you control John Black, Morgan's grandson, as he becomes embroiled in a conflict between the French and British colonies. The story involves alliances with Native American tribes and the search for a lost Aztec treasure.

Act III: Steel

Set during the American Revolution, you guide Amelia Black, John's daughter, as she aids the newly formed United States in their fight for independence from British rule. The act culminates in battles for control of key territories and the establishment of a new nation.

Distinctive Features

One of the game's notable features is the "Home City" system. This mechanic allows you to develop and customize your European power's support network. You can ship resources, units, and technologies from your Home City to your colonies in the New World, adding a strategic layer to resource management and empire development.

The game also features a combat system, with new units and tactical options. Civilizations have unique units and technologies, influencing combat strategies and empire customization.