Old, but like new!
It is rare finding a game that offered so much for its time, and in some cases the game is even better than many modern Strategy games. Please note I will rate comparing it with more modern games, since I believe it still qualifies. This game does not only offer a strong Historical background, but allows you to physically dig into the historical background and famous battles. This alone is better than going through the history books. You need to build an Empire by making the villagers work to collect gold, rock, wood and food. Without the villagers you will not be able to expand your military, technology, etc.
Even though Age of Empires does show its age, it does not have bad graphics. Not even bugs were ever really visible or even ever a problem. The game is almost perfect regarding bugs. The only bug I ever saw was the Cathedrals roof which did not always refresh. However that might be a driver or hardware which is not up to date.
The sound is great, voices are clear and it really gives a nice atmosphere throughout game. As I always say when games come with multiplayer and mission editors, I consider it as great value for money. No one really plays online on Age of Empires today "I think". I don't really know since I was never able to get connected for some reason. Multiplayer really does not matter anymore for that age game since I personally will not play it online.
Even though this is a great game it is not my type of game. I prefer the more Hardcore games such as BF series or any FPS type games which is fast paced unlike strategy games.