The very game that introduced me to RTS gaming is still as good as it was over a decade ago despite some problems.
In terms of plot, the game follows a historic path. There are a variety of campaigns included ranging from the Egyptians to the Yamato civilization. Each campaign is supposedly based on history, setting about a variety of objectives for you to complete. Sadly, a lack of narrative makes it hard to get interested quickly.
Age Of Empires has a share of city building and combat. There are four ages to advance through, a variety of technlogies for you to research as well a range of buildings and military units for you to use. Making use of these features requires resources which can be gathered by villagers, while establishments are built by them. It might be slow at first, but customization options are provided if you wish to jump into a random map or customized scenario. The variety of options double the replay value and the huge range of civilizations you can play as extend it even further. Those who are familiar with Civilization or Warcraft will learn the basics fairly quickly.
What makes these scenarios shine is reasonably intelligent A.I. They will build up at a pace they feel is appropriate so do expect them to vary their tactics. Sadly, the flawed pathfinding can leave a very bad first impression for most gamers as well as the fact that the A.I can be annoyingly unforgiving at times even on the easier difficulties. Newbies to RTS games will encounter some challenges as they progress.
Visually, the game is smashing. For a game released in 1997 it really does look like a lot of effort went into making this game look spiffing. The fluid and realistic animation make Age Of Empires look like a lovely RTS. The detailed set pieces will also catch your eye on several occassions.
Problems do arise when you begin getting immersed in the gameplay. The game's population limit for your characters is ridiculous extending only to 75, as well as a weak variety of units in several civilizations. The lack of narrative leaves little potential for the campaigns and the flawed pathfinding can be a real problem.
Age Of Empires could have had more to offer and a few of the game's limitations and bugs regarding the annoying pathfinding may have scared off RTS noobs back in the time of its release. Regardless, those with patience and lot of experience will find much to like about Age Of Empires.
7.5
:)
Good A.I
Plenty of customizable options
A lot of replay value
:(
Lack of narrative
Horrific pathfinding
Some odd in-game limitations