As a real-time strategy game, Age of Empires requires you to gather resources, build cities, defend your lands, and conquer neighboring countries. Rather than casting you in a fantasy or science fiction world, Age of Empires sets you up as the aspiring ruler of any one of a dozen historically prominent civilizations that you must lead through Stone, Tool, Bronze, and Iron ages. The scramble for resources is typical of the genre, but Age of Empires offers some clever variations (for example, food can be hunted, gathered, or harvested) and directly ties technological advancements to a civilization's progress.

Every inch of the struggle is represented by slick unit animations and artfully drawn maps. In scenarios and multiplayer action, strategy is influenced by the culture you choose: use the well-balanced Greeks' advantages by training Phalanx and Centurions to create a legion of foot soldiers; or opt for the Persians, who are hoping to overcome their penalty on food production by quickly deploying their strong cavalry. In the single-player campaign mode, battles and challenges are framed by chapter screens that contain relevant historical context, giving the game some welcome depth. --Jack Gardiner

Pros:

• Detailed unit animations, lush maps, and scripted events make the game come alive
• Historical context makes for interesting settings
• Flexible research paths allow you to either rush toward the Iron Age or make your stand earlier
• Support for the free Mac-only multiplayer matchup service, GameRanger

• Interface is occasionally awkward
• Only Mac vs. Mac multiplayer