Age of Empires II (Retired) Review Summary

Highly acclaimed RTS game: This game is widely regarded as one of the best real-time strategy (RTS) games ever made. Players praise it as a classic and a masterpiece in the strategy genre, inspiring generations of RTS games.

Great for strategy enthusiasts: The game is highly enjoyable for those who love strategy games. It requires strategic thinking and patience, making it a masterpiece in the strategy genre.

Diverse civilizations and unique units: The game features a variety of civilizations with unique attributes and units. Players can choose from different civilizations, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

Enduring and timeless appeal: The game has a long-lasting appeal and remains relevant and enjoyable even after many years. It is considered a timeless classic that can be enjoyed for years.

Multiplayer and game modes: The game offers a variety of game modes, including multiplayer, which provides a basis for competitive play. Players appreciate the different modes available.

Abandoned and outdated version: The game is perceived as abandoned with outdated features and development. Players feel that the version is obsolete and no longer supported.

Poor graphics quality: The graphics are described as rough, pixelated, and outdated, which detracts from the visual experience and can be unpleasant to look at.

Multiplayer matchmaking issues: Players get kicked from multiplayer matches due to rank disparities, and the online multiplayer experience is described as terrible and limited.

Outdated multiplayer infrastructure: The multiplayer experience is limited and outdated, with issues related to network infrastructure and compatibility.

Pathfinding issues: Players experience frustrating and wonky pathfinding, which affects unit movement and overall gameplay experience.

Diverse Civilizations and Unique Armies: The game offers 18 unique civilizations, each with distinct units and bonuses. This diversity ensures varied gameplay strategies and enhances replayability.

Real-Time Strategy with Intelligence: The game is a real-time strategy (RTS) that requires a lot of thinking and intelligence. It offers a centralized and simple yet deep gameplay experience.

Deep City and Empire Building Mechanics: Players can engage in detailed city-building and empire-building mechanics, including resource gathering, base building, and villager management.

Historical Campaigns and Progression: The game features campaigns based on historical facts and figures, allowing players to progress through different ages, from the Dark Ages to the Imperial Ages.

Engaging Multiplayer Experience: The multiplayer mode is highly competitive and offers team-based gameplay. It scales the challenge and provides a dynamic and engaging experience.

Improved Performance and Compatibility: The game runs smoothly even on older or low-end computers, making it accessible to a wider range of players.

Updated Graphics: The game features updated graphics and improved textures, supporting modern resolutions.

Performance Issues in Large Battles: Players experience lag and performance issues during large battles or heavy multiplayer matches.

Installation and Technical Issues: There are reports of technical issues such as the game opening random pages, disappearing immediately, and long installation times.

Linux-Specific Issues: Linux users report issues such as intro videos not working and low FPS.

Recommended for strategy and RTS fans: This game is highly recommended for fans of classic strategy games and the RTS genre. It appeals to both new and old fans seeking nostalgia or a well-optimized remaster.

Definitive Edition preferred: Many reviews suggest buying the Definitive Edition for a better multiplayer experience and overall improved gameplay. It is often recommended over the HD version.

Great for multiplayer and friends: The game is praised for its multiplayer support and is recommended for playing with friends, enhancing the overall experience.

Recommended for history enthusiasts: The game is recommended for those interested in historical campaigns and history enthusiasts, providing an engaging experience.

Wait for sale: Several reviews suggest waiting for a sale before purchasing the game, indicating that it is worth buying at a discounted price.

Community fair range: $4.00 - $5.00.

Game completion: 200.0h.

Story completion: 200.0h.

Session length: 12.0h.

Endgame: 10000.0h.

The game becomes enjoyable after players overcome the initial learning curve and understand the basic mechanics, with multiplayer adding significant fun for those who persist.

Reported time to anchor: 1h 30m.

Nostalgic Veteran: Varied, often enjoying both single-player and multiplayer modes. Motivation: Nostalgia and long-term enjoyment. Stance: buy.

Single-Player Strategist: Focused on single-player campaigns and skirmishes, enjoying the strategic and historical aspects. Motivation: Enjoyment of single-player content and strategic depth. Stance: buy.

Multiplayer Enthusiast: Focused on multiplayer matches, both competitive and cooperative. Motivation: Competitive and cooperative multiplayer experiences. Stance: buy.

Steam Deck: The analysis of user feedback reveals several significant issues impacting the overall experience. Performance and optimization problems, including frame drops and anti-cheat system complaints, are prevalent. Users also face challenges with the user interface, such as small text and complex navigation. Additionally, Linux users report needing to tinker with settings to achieve satisfactory performance, which adds to the frustration. These issues collectively contribute to a less enjoyable and more challenging gaming experience.

Linux and Proton: The game appears to have some compatibility issues with Linux. Users report that tinkering is often required to get the game running properly, and there are significant performance issues reported by at least one user. However, there are also indications that the game can run fine on more modern Linux laptops with some adjustments.

Monetization: The analysis of user reviews for the game reveals a mix of sentiments regarding its pricing and DLCs. While some users appreciate the HD version and the additional content provided by the DLCs, others feel that the game is overpriced, especially considering its age and the need to repurchase for additional content. The reviews do not indicate the presence of predatory monetization practices such as pay-to-win mechanics, gacha systems, or aggressive FOMO tactics. The primary concerns revolve around the base price and the value offered by the DLCs.

Highly engaging gameplay: The game has provided an extensive playtime of over 700 hours, indicating that it is highly engaging and can keep players interested for long periods.

Evokes personal memories: The game has a significant impact on players, evoking personal memories which suggests a deep emotional connection and a meaningful gaming experience.