Take control of a powerful civilization. Lead them through 1000 years of the Middle Ages to riches and greatness. Will you Intimidate the world into following you by using military force? Rule the world with honor and nobility by using commerce and diplomacy? Or Underhandedly seize power through conspiracy, deception and regicide? There are many paths to power, there can only be one ruler! Age of Empires II is a real-time strategy game that focuses on building towns, gathering resources, and creating armies to defeat opponents. Players conquer rival towns and empires as they advance one of 13 civilizations through four "Ages": the Dark Age, the Feudal Age, the Castle Age (being the High Middle Ages), and the Imperial Age, reminiscent of the Renaissance—a 1000-year timeframe. Advancing to a new Age unlocks new units, structures, and technologies, but players must first build certain buildings from their current age and then pay a sum of resources (typically food and gold).

97年的E3即时策略游戏大奖得主，横跨新旧石器时代、铜器时代、铁器时代的文明大作，后续的帝国时代没有这么大手笔，制作人又去自己做了一款地球帝国来满足自己。