AOE II also plays well online (via GameRanger), adding even more value. For gamers looking to the future, this game runs like a dream in Mac OS X. However, this didn’t affect gameplay in any serious way. A patch (available at the company’s Web site) cured most of the problems, but the game continued to crash occasionally on quitting and after we won campaigns. A smarter default state would help preempt such behavior.ĪOE II rocked our world, but ifs not perfect: We experienced random application crashes and other bugginess in Mac OS 9. We remedied this by changing their attack status, but in a frenzied battle, it’s easy to lose track of errant, bloodthirsty units. Sometimes military units become too aggressive, however, and in the heat of the chase they follow enemies blindly into certain death. And when gumption fails, the Find Idle Peasant function helps you keep your peons busy and your empire functioning smoothly. Your workers are smart enough so that after they’ve used up their resources they seek out new materials and keep working. Players of the original game will find AOE II’s artificial intelligence far superior. The game also offers variety in its objectives: You can create a wonder of the world, obtain relics, or simply force your enemies under your booted heel (our personal favorite). For the expert, campaigns are highly customizable, with several difficulty settings and a map editor that allows you to, say, put the Celts in a palm-tree-ridden tundra. It's broken down into easy-to-understand sections, and the storyline and voice acting are engaging. Although all the Dark Ages characters generally look alike, hearing them speak in their civilization’s native tongue helps us forgive their generic appearance.ĪOE II invites the casual gamer with a well-conceived tutorial game featuring the familiar story of Sir William Wallace (that guy in Braveheart). A history section is included to help you bone up on events portrayed In the game - a helpful strategy tool for cultures with limiting factors, such as the Aztecs’ tendencies toward infighting. An even more impressive element is the game’s historical accuracy, as the buildings, people, and environments are true to the eras they represent. Unlike the original version, AOE II has the power of the pixel, with masterfully rendered 2D sprites and lush backgrounds it's both detailed and practical - the characters leave footprints and show up as outlines when obstructed (a godsend in times of combat). After you vanquish the great civilizations of historynow including the Mayans, Koreans, Huns, and others - you can retrace the paths of great conquerors like Genghis Khan or legendary leaders like Joan of Arc. The second installment of Age of Empires is here, combining The Age of Kings and its expansion pack - The Conquerors - into one masterpiece of real-time strategy. The time is nigh to brandish your long swords and defend your civilization against invading hordes. Experience the adventure of the Spanish Conquistadors as they enter the exotic lands of the Aztecs, or relive the destructive force of Attila's pillaging Huns.
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