Excellent Historic RTS. Better than age of Kings.
The new graphics engine of AOE III is one of the first new aspects of the game that you wil notice. I run it on an X700 Radeon have the options turned up pretty high at 1280x1024 without problems. With reflective surfaces turned on, you could look at the water graphic all day. It's that good. Other graphical tidbits add a great touch, if you fire a cannon ball at a group of soldiers you can see it wreck havoc upon them.
The game play is top notch, with serveral different nations to choose from, including the American Indians. In the single player campaign, the Native Americans are a cool twist to the gameplay.
The single player consists of three "Acts" that take place during different time periods. The acts follow the adventures of the 'Black' family and starts with the narrorator's grandfather and ends with her. You will see America go from the new world to the Old West. Trains are a cool addition.
All and all the single player is interesting and challenging, and you'll enjoy it. Great multiplayer keeps the game alive, as well as exploring different options from your 'home city'.
This is an outstanding game and if you're a casual RTS fan, like me, you'll find something you love about, as well as RTS entusiasts.