Info about Age of Empires II (Retired):

Official game description:
With the release of Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition in 2019, this edition is not the most current and will not be updated further.  
In Age of Empires II: HD Edition, fans of the original game and new players alike will fall in love with the classic Age of Empires II experience. Explore all the original single player campaigns from both Age of Kings and The Conquerors expansion, choose from 18 civilizations spanning over a thousand years of history, and head online to challenge other Steam players in your quest for world domination throughout the ages. Originally developed by Ensemble Studios and re-imagined in high definition by Hidden Path Entertainment, Skybox Labs, and Forgotten Empires, Microsoft Studios is proud to bring Age of Empires II: HD Edition to Steam!

Release date: Apr 9, 2013

Categories: Real-time Strategy, Historical Strategy, Multiplayer, Civilization Building, Resource Management, Campaign Mode, Competitive Multiplayer, Single-player Campaigns

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair; summary: 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.
- Proton/Linux: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: 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.
- Steam Deck: score 55; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: 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.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $4.00 - $5.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that the community generally finds the game overpriced at its current rate, especially considering its age. Several reviews mention that the game is not worth the full price, and one review specifically states that the game is often discounted by 75% - 80% during sales, bringing the price down to around $4-5. This indicates that the community considers a fair price to be significantly lower than the current base price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 200.0h
  - Story completion: 200.0h
  - Session length: 12.0h
  - Endgame: 10000.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides direct and indirect references to playtime metrics. The quote '200+ hours of campaigns/missions' suggests a substantial amount of content for game completion and story completion. The phrase 'I've lost countless hours to just-one-more-game syndrome' implies long sessions and high replayability, supporting endgame and session length metrics. The statement 'I've played for over 10K hrs and likely have at least another 5K to go' indicates extremely high total playtime, reinforcing the endgame metric. Finally, 'I probably have over a thousand hours logged across CDs, LAN parties, and random cracked installs over the years' further supports the high playtime across different metrics.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: 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.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Understanding basic mechanics and strategies
  - Time to anchor: 1h 30m
  - Friction: Complexity of the game; Difficulty in multiplayer for new players
  - Unlock drivers: Learning basic mechanics and strategies; Looking up guides
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Playing solo; Using guides
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Nostalgia and long-term enjoyment
    - Playstyle: Varied, often enjoying both single-player and multiplayer modes.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: veteran; long-time fan
    - Reference games: Age of Empires II; Imperium Galactica 2
  - Single-Player Strategist (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoyment of single-player content and strategic depth
    - Playstyle: Focused on single-player campaigns and skirmishes, enjoying the strategic and historical aspects.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: strategy fan; history lover
    - Reference games: Age of Empires II; Civilization
  - Multiplayer Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Competitive and cooperative multiplayer experiences
    - Playstyle: Focused on multiplayer matches, both competitive and cooperative.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: multiplayer fan; competitive player
    - Reference games: Age of Empires II; StarCraft


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Highly acclaimed RTS game (weight 0.21): 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 (weight 0.19): 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 (weight 0.18): 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 (weight 0.14): 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 (weight 0.13): The game offers a variety of game modes, including multiplayer, which provides a basis for competitive play. Players appreciate the different modes available.
- Nostalgic and childhood memories (weight 0.13): Many players have nostalgic memories associated with this game, often recalling it as a classic from their childhood that brings back good memories.
- Engaging and fun gameplay (weight 0.12): The game is praised for its fun and engaging gameplay mechanics. Players find the variety in mechanics and the realistic gameplay enjoyable.
- Classic and improved graphics (weight 0.11): The game retains its classic 2D style graphics, which some players appreciate. There are also mentions of improved graphics in newer versions.
- Historical accuracy and education (weight 0.11): The game is based on historical facts and figures, providing an educational experience about history. It is seen as a great starting point to learn about medieval history.
- Fun with friends and family (weight 0.08): The game is great for playing with friends and family, offering both cooperative and competitive multiplayer experiences. It is enjoyable via LAN with friends and family.
- Long playtime and engagement (weight 0.08): The game is known for its long playtime, with players engaging with it for extended periods. Some players have been playing it since its release in 1999.
- Medieval setting and theme (weight 0.05): The game is set in the medieval period up to the age of knights, offering an enjoyable medieval theme. Players appreciate the historical setting and the atmosphere it creates.
- Requires intelligence and strategy (weight 0.05): The game requires a lot of intelligence, strategy, and knowledge. Players need to think carefully and develop strategic plans to succeed.
- Easy to pick up (weight 0.05): The game is quick to get started and has an easy learning curve. Players find it accessible and easy to pick up, making it enjoyable for both new and experienced players.

Common complaints:
- Abandoned and outdated version (weight 0.15): 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 (weight 0.14): 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 (weight 0.11): Players get kicked from multiplayer matches due to rank disparities, and the online multiplayer experience is described as terrible and limited.
- Outdated multiplayer infrastructure (weight 0.11): The multiplayer experience is limited and outdated, with issues related to network infrastructure and compatibility.
- Pathfinding issues (weight 0.1): Players experience frustrating and wonky pathfinding, which affects unit movement and overall gameplay experience.
- Specific gameplay issues (weight 0.09): There are specific issues with gameplay mechanics, such as bots not giving up gold and certain units or mechanics not functioning as expected.
- UI and resolution issues (weight 0.09): There are significant problems with UI scaling and resolution, making the game difficult to play on certain monitors.
- Visual and performance issues (weight 0.09): The game has visual and performance issues, including lag in large battles and compatibility problems with certain systems.
- Comparison with Definitive Edition (weight 0.09): Players feel that the HD Edition is outclassed by the Definitive Edition, which offers better visuals, content, and overall experience.
- Lack of updates and support (weight 0.08): Players feel that the game lacks updates and support, with discontinued update support and no further improvements.
- Game feels outdated and clunky (weight 0.08): The game is described as old and clunky, with outdated mechanics and controls that affect the overall gameplay experience.
- Difficulty and balance issues (weight 0.08): Players report difficulty and balance issues, including unfair AI and imbalanced gameplay mechanics.
- Game availability problems (weight 0.07): The game has been removed from Steam and is no longer available for download, causing confusion and frustration among players.
- New campaigns and content (weight 0.07): Players appreciate the addition of new campaigns and content, which add variety and depth to the game.
- Pricing and value concerns (weight 0.06): There are concerns about the pricing and value of the game, with players feeling that the cost is not justified given the current state of the game.
- Game bugs and glitches (weight 0.05): There are various bugs and glitches reported by players, including issues with campaign completion and general gameplay bugs.
- Long match durations (weight 0.05): Matches are described as long and time-consuming, which can be frustrating for players looking for quicker gameplay sessions.
- Negative sentiment towards developers (weight 0.05): There is a negative sentiment towards the developers, with accusations of cash grabs and poor business practices.

Gameplay feedback:
- Diverse Civilizations and Unique Armies (weight 0.23): 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 (weight 0.21): 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 (weight 0.21): Players can engage in detailed city-building and empire-building mechanics, including resource gathering, base building, and villager management.
- Historical Campaigns and Progression (weight 0.2): 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 (weight 0.18): The multiplayer mode is highly competitive and offers team-based gameplay. It scales the challenge and provides a dynamic and engaging experience.
- Improved Mechanics and AI (weight 0.07): The game features improved mechanics and AI behavior, enhancing the overall gameplay experience and providing a challenging environment.
- Nostalgic and Social Interactions (weight 0.07): The game is associated with nostalgic memories and offers social interactions, adding a layer of personal connection and community engagement.
- Variety of Game Modes (weight 0.04): The game includes different game modes, providing players with a variety of ways to enjoy the game, from single-player campaigns to multiplayer competitions.
- Increased Population Sizes (weight 0.03): The game features increased population limits, allowing for larger armies and more complex strategies.

Performance notes:
- Improved Performance and Compatibility (weight 0.1): The game runs smoothly even on older or low-end computers, making it accessible to a wider range of players.
- Updated Graphics (weight 0.1): The game features updated graphics and improved textures, supporting modern resolutions.
- Performance Issues in Large Battles (weight 0.1): Players experience lag and performance issues during large battles or heavy multiplayer matches.
- Installation and Technical Issues (weight 0.05): There are reports of technical issues such as the game opening random pages, disappearing immediately, and long installation times.
- Linux-Specific Issues (weight 0.04): Linux users report issues such as intro videos not working and low FPS.
- UI Scaling and Zoom Issues (weight 0.03): Players have noted the need for UI zoom options and issues with UI scaling at higher resolutions.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for strategy and RTS fans (weight 0.21): 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 (weight 0.1): 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 (weight 0.06): The game is praised for its multiplayer support and is recommended for playing with friends, enhancing the overall experience.
- Recommended for history enthusiasts (weight 0.04): The game is recommended for those interested in historical campaigns and history enthusiasts, providing an engaging experience.
- Wait for sale (weight 0.03): Several reviews suggest waiting for a sale before purchasing the game, indicating that it is worth buying at a discounted price.
- Similar to other classic games (weight 0.03): The game is compared to other classic games like Warcraft, Starcraft, Civilization, Theme Hospital, Roller Coaster Tycoon, and Two Point University, making it appealing to fans of these titles.
- Desire for updates (weight 0.03): Some players express a desire for updates, suggesting that quality-of-life improvements could make the game even more popular.
- Good for stress relief (weight 0.02): Some players find the game to be a good option for stress relief, offering a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Other player notes:
- Highly engaging gameplay (weight 0.03): 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 (weight 0.03): The game has a significant impact on players, evoking personal memories which suggests a deep emotional connection and a meaningful gaming experience.

Emotions:
- Nostalgia (weight 0.5): Players express nostalgia due to childhood memories associated with the game, often reminiscing about playing with family and friends. The game's classic nature, historical campaigns, and long-term engagement also evoke a strong sense of nostalgia.
- Joy (weight 0.1): The game brings joy through positive gameplay experiences, social interactions, and the enjoyment of its mechanics. Players appreciate the fun and educational aspects, as well as the opportunity to play with friends and family.
- Frustration (weight 0.08): Frustration arises from technical issues such as unplayable unit pathfinding, online multiplayer problems, and game balance issues. Players also express annoyance with the game's requirements, such as needing an internet connection, and difficulties with local multiplayer.
- Excitement (weight 0.06): Players are excited by the game's addictive and historically rich gameplay, as well as its strategic depth and variety of civilizations. The engaging and fun gameplay experience, along with massive warfare in multiplayer, contributes to this excitement.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.04): Satisfaction comes from long-term enjoyment of the game, fluid gameplay, and the challenge it provides. Players feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction after extensive gameplay and overcoming challenges.
- Appreciation (weight 0.04): Players appreciate the game's depth, accessibility, and historical campaigns. The educational value, historical accuracy, and the developers' long-term investment are also highly appreciated.
- Happiness (weight 0.04): The game brings happiness through positive memories associated with playing with family and friends. The emotional connection to the game and the joy it brings during childhood contribute to this happiness.
- Disappointment (weight 0.02): Disappointment stems from issues with new campaigns, lack of certain civilizations, and technical problems such as updates breaking the game. Players also express disappointment with the development being abandoned.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.02): Players enjoy the game for its ability to keep them occupied for hours, the pleasure of building kingdoms, and defeating enemies. The game's engaging nature and the freedom to play at their own pace contribute to this enjoyment.
- Sadness (weight 0.02): Sadness is evoked by reflections on the passage of time, family changes, and personal losses. The game's association with past memories and lost friendships can bring about a sense of sadness.
- Relaxation (weight 0.01): The game is effective for relaxation, helping players to unwind and reduce stress. Its calming effects and the ability to play at a leisurely pace contribute to this sense of relaxation.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arises from issues with game availability, complex city planning, and unclear enemy mechanics. Players express bewilderment over certain aspects of the game that are not intuitive or well-explained.
- Gratitude (weight 0.01): Players feel gratitude for the educational value of the game, including learning English, history, and anthropology. The game's impact on their lives and the knowledge gained contribute to this sense of gratitude.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Admiration is expressed for the game's historical impact, quality, and its status as a gaming masterpiece. Players admire the game's depth and the high regard it holds within the gaming community.
- Relief (weight 0.01): The game helps players release feelings and gain freedom from daily issues, providing a sense of relief. Its ability to distract from real-life problems and offer an escape contributes to this relief.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement comes from humorous and playful aspects of the game, such as managing villagers better than real-life decisions. The game's light-hearted and entertaining moments contribute to this amusement.
- Love (weight 0.01): Players express love for the game due to its engaging gameplay, historical richness, and the positive memories associated with it. The deep affection for the game and its impact on their lives contribute to this love.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Anger is directed towards the developers' behavior, lack of updates, and negative experiences with new partners. Players express frustration and anger over issues that detract from their enjoyment of the game.
- Approval (weight 0): Approval is given for the game's educational aspect and overall quality. Players appreciate the game's ability to educate and entertain, contributing to their approval.
- Humor (weight 0): Humor is found in the playful and exaggerated tone of reviews, highlighting the game's entertaining and amusing aspects. The game's ability to bring laughter and joy contributes to this sense of humor.}