Age of Empires

Definition

Age of Empires is a series of historical real-time strategy video games that focus on building civilizations and managing resources throughout different historical eras. Players progress through ages, develop technologies, and engage in warfare, all while drawing inspiration from various historical settings, making it a key example of how video games can reflect historical events and societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The first game in the Age of Empires series was released in 1997 by Ensemble Studios and focused on the Stone Age to the Iron Age.
2. Age of Empires includes several expansions and spin-offs that explore different time periods, including the Middle Ages and the Age of Exploration.
3. The series emphasizes historical accuracy by incorporating real civilizations, technologies, and famous historical figures within its gameplay.
4. Players must gather resources like food, wood, and gold to advance through ages, build armies, and conquer opponents.
5. Age of Empires has evolved over the years with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics, maintaining a dedicated fanbase and influencing many other strategy games.

Review Questions

• How does Age of Empires incorporate historical events and settings into its gameplay mechanics?
  • Age of Empires weaves historical events into its gameplay by allowing players to choose real civilizations that reflect specific time periods. Each civilization has unique units and technologies that mirror their historical counterparts. The game progresses through different ages, requiring players to adapt their strategies based on the technological advancements typical of those eras, thus providing an engaging way to learn about history while playing.
• Evaluate the impact of Age of Empires on the genre of real-time strategy games and its representation of history.
  • Age of Empires significantly influenced the real-time strategy genre by combining resource management with historical themes. Its focus on building civilizations within accurately depicted historical contexts set a standard for future RTS games. This representation has not only entertained players but also sparked interest in learning more about the real histories behind the civilizations portrayed in the game, merging education with gaming.
• Synthesize how Age of Empires reflects broader trends in the portrayal of history in video games during its release period.
  • During the late 1990s when Age of Empires was released, there was a growing trend in video games to blend entertainment with educational elements, particularly focusing on historical narratives. The game's approach to depicting various civilizations allowed players to explore different cultures and their histories interactively. This reflects a broader trend where developers sought to create immersive experiences that educate players about significant historical events while offering engaging gameplay. As a result, Age of Empires not only entertained but also encouraged discussions around history, shaping how future video games would approach similar themes.

Related terms

Real-Time Strategy (RTS): A genre of video games where players must manage resources and command units in real-time, rather than taking turns.

Civilization: A complex society characterized by elements like cities, government, and culture, which players must develop and expand in Age of Empires.

Historical Simulation: A genre that aims to accurately recreate historical events or conditions, often incorporating strategies and decisions based on real historical contexts.