Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings

"One complaint that critics may have about Age of Empires II - The Age of Kings is that is doesn't advance the genre or reach far beyond the scope of the original game. While this argument is somewhat well-founded, it does not keep the game from being entertaining. Great care has been taken to correct the shortcomings of the original. In this effort, Age of Empires succeeds undeniably. Beyond this, the game extends the strengths of its predecessor with 13 unique races, a variety of exciting new units, and wealth of new features. It is left to the individual to decide if a fun continuation of the original game is enough merit, or if the lack of technological advances keeps the game from achieving its full potential." - GameSpy (2001)

"Microsoft jumped into real time strategy games with the well-received Age of Empires. It offered a unique view to real time strategy with the ability to choose from different civilizations with varied unit and technology advancement. Age of Empires 2 retains all these elements with new civilizations to choose from with new units, sounds, and a graphical overhaul as well. If you were a fan of the first game, Age of Empires, or missed it but love real time strategy games, I highly recommend Age of Empires 2." - gamepublic.com (1999)