Age of Empires III

 PC
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 778 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 529 out of 778
  2. Mixed: 190 out of 778
  3. Negative: 59 out of 778
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  1. Roboshark
    Jul 30, 2023
    9
    Enjoyable RTS worth the money. The game mechanics will keep you busy for hours. I like the variation of possible ways to play this game - experimenting is especially fun here.
  2. Harthik69
    Jul 9, 2023
    9
    Nice Game. Would love to play again in future. Good Graphics and mechanics!!!
  3. kolarz3
    May 19, 2023
    8
    Pretty good RTS. I think I finished fully that game. I liked the fact that it was possible go choose between different fractions
  4. dr-kenobi
    Sep 6, 2022
    4
    Honestly, cartoonish graphics spoil everything. Also, the dynamics don't feel the same way it did in AoE II and that was the best thing
  5. Marinusf
    Aug 22, 2022
    8
    You have some repetitive building going on and a bit of a lazy AI but apart from that it really feels like a strategy game with alot of different tactics and playstyles. It does get repetitive and has a more shallow gameplay than AOE2 & AOE4.
  6. Jackie_Jackson
    May 26, 2022
    8
    Просто катаешься на огромном внедорожнике получается и давишь всех индейцев неполиткорректно конечно но такое уж было время так и жили
  7. Dco326
    May 1, 2022
    6
    Izmedju 6 i 7... nekako aj interesantno je i presao sam sve misije i sve historical sranja ali nesto ima slj u njoj, grafika mi se ne dopada, range jedinice mi se ne dopadaju, ai moze nekako da bude lud nemam pojma dosta stvari mi ide na zivce, ali definitivno ne bi predlozio ima dosta bagova onaj definitive edition takodje i tako... bas nemam pojma ali ne bi predlozio i ne bi je igrao vise :)
  8. ANTtheKNEEEE
    Mar 15, 2022
    9
    Childhood classic, I have so many memories of being in the garage with my old computer late at night replaying scenarios.
  9. olditmer
    Mar 9, 2022
    10
    best age of empires game (havent played the latest so cant say for sure), aoe 2 had to many quirks for me to prefer 3 over it, gives u some breathing space instead of trying to bore lure and micro towns aoe3 lets u do more of the fun things, and makes units more understandable. 10/10 many thousands hours since childhood and now in my mid 20's
  10. jeelai
    Mar 4, 2022
    10
    this game is awesome is nostalgic i prefer this is good i loved this is more good than the definitive edition what is not nostalgic
  11. heisenberg_88
    Nov 24, 2021
    10
    Great game . I still enjoy this RTS .
    There are some missing things from AoE2 , but still i love this game !
    AoE series is my all time favorite series
  12. SirGando
    Nov 10, 2021
    9
    In my eyes an underrated game that for some reason lost appeal for most people because of its setting. Visually and in terms of gameplay a great game.
  13. Axelle_1
    Sep 7, 2021
    10
    Age of Empires takes the franchise into a great finish for Ensemble Studious. Better graphics, better campaign and more maps. Bu the cons are that there is only 3 resources to gather, witch makes the game easier and the AI is really passive on Easy and Normal. Now they added in Sandbox difficulty setting in witch the AI does nothing, its like its taunting me by easy it is.
  14. D4vid
    Jun 11, 2021
    10
    Simply a perfect game. A big step after Age of empires 2: a step forward for sure.
    The game is balanced, it has a perfectly working online system, it has an editor that allows you to play your custom maps online
  15. Misterdiony
    May 17, 2021
    8
    Another top tier RTS game, slightly lower than AoE 1 and 2 though. The campaign is well designed along with nice graphics, I would have wished for more improvements in general / innovations though.
  16. Zeyon88
    Apr 13, 2021
    7
    Story: 6/10
    The Way story is given: 14/20
    Gameplay: 23/30
    Design: 5/10
    Feelings left after playing: 16/20
    Playability(Bugs and optimization): 9/10

    AVARAGE: 73/100

    Gameplay is simple but there are are some elements that makes it enjoyable. Campaign is a little bit short but satisfying. Not good as Age Of Empires 2 but still a playable game in your free time.
  17. NeeRay
    Jan 3, 2021
    8
    After passing Batman Arkham Asylum, I wrote that after one part, it is always better to continue it.
    How wrong I was. I do not know who and why does not like this part, but it gave me more emotions for its passage than Asylum and City combined.
    Arkham Origins is a game about Bruce and Alfred's relationship. It's about Gotham's introduction to the bat. First encounters with all of    After passing Batman Arkham Asylum, I wrote that after one part, it is always better to continue it.
    How wrong I was. I do not know who and why does not like this part, but it gave me more emotions for its passage than Asylum and City combined.

    Arkham Origins is a game about Bruce and Alfred's relationship. It's about Gotham's introduction to the bat. First encounters with all of Batman's main villains. Especially, only this part perfectly shows the relationship between Batman and the Joker. If you play carefully, you can understand why they are so dependent on each other. Why this mutual hatred and concern.

    Gameplay of course, this part is not far away from Arkham City. But the developers did work on the bugs. The city is divided into sections and we do not have so many hiding places of the Riddler. This made it easier to find them, and the tests on the caches themselves were not surprising. Most of it is simple. There are interesting additional missions. The mission with the mad Hatter and Alice sends us into a flashback of the Scarecrow.
    Returning to Arkham encourages nostalgic memories.

    What's definitely improved is the evidence analysis. This process has become more complete. But playing Batman has become much easier, having pumped a couple of skills, you can "cut down" several enemies in the crowd at once, and they are very imbued in all battles against any opponents. Using them simply makes no sense in individual approaches to certain enemies.

    There are several new villains in the game. There are new types of enemies, the same couple.
    An interesting mission to investigate the murder of the founder of Gotham.
    Ent in the game is served NORMALLY. Look for the pentagrams on the walls. Listen and read the biography (as it was before). There was a bat cave, although it is not much use, mostly there is training and dialogues with Alfred. Cinematography has become even a level higher. But if the graphics have become better, then it does not catch the eye. Batman has moved more naturally in transitions from one enemy to another, but still flies like a nut.....

    In general, this is still the same Batman, but you need to look at it in a new way. It makes no sense to compare it with the original as well as the last three parts about Lara Croft. Restart on that and restart. To show something old but in a new way and with a fresh look.    … Expand
  18. Torgall
    Dec 13, 2020
    8
    After playing the first game, the 3D in this instalment was quite a big change. I liked the different nations, with Capital bonuses.
  19. tikend
    Oct 29, 2020
    8
    Fun gameplay, good campaigns, pretty graphics. Never enjoyed the multiplayer as much as in II but singleplayer experience was great.
  20. Valgeth
    Oct 13, 2020
    7
    Better than AOE2 first and foremost, music: 4/5, cinematics: 4/5, UI: 4/5, Story: lol 5/5. So here's the bad part, base building is still slow, campaigns ditched base building in many missions which is good, also added more variety in objectives, the story is fun but if I constantly have to wonder what's true and what isn't, that's a problem, though it did make me curious enough toBetter than AOE2 first and foremost, music: 4/5, cinematics: 4/5, UI: 4/5, Story: lol 5/5. So here's the bad part, base building is still slow, campaigns ditched base building in many missions which is good, also added more variety in objectives, the story is fun but if I constantly have to wonder what's true and what isn't, that's a problem, though it did make me curious enough to actually read the real history so that's a plus. Skirmish matches allow you to go into death match, which negates base building to some degree but cannons are so over powering. I like the feature in blitzkrieg where inanimate things aren't units but rather are things that units can take control of, in BK you can kill artillery crews and seize the cannons. You can clear out buildings and reoccupy them, features which this game sorely lacks, in BK you don't build structures or train armies, that's ridiculous, you just call for reinforcements or better yet in the Fields of thunder expansion you have to wait for reinforcements to arrive. Lots of features in this game allow you to save time, like home city cards, but if you're facing an enemy with better cards you're done for.… Expand
  21. MatikTheSeventh
    Oct 10, 2020
    5
    While the new content and mechanics are great additions, I never fell in love with the game as much as I have with Age of Empires 2. 3D graphics made it uglier than the prequel and the card mechanics were just weird.
  22. cezar88augusto
    Sep 26, 2020
    8
    Comparing AOE II with the AOE III version, I can obviously say that the structure of the game is the same. Despite the graphic improvements and insertion of some elements in version III, I believe that AOE II will always be better than all the others. I don't know how to explain why. Perhaps because of the simplicity and objectivity of the game.
    One version that I liked a lot and that    Comparing AOE II with the AOE III version, I can obviously say that the structure of the game is the same. Despite the graphic improvements and insertion of some elements in version III, I believe that AOE II will always be better than all the others. I don't know how to explain why. Perhaps because of the simplicity and objectivity of the game.
    One version that I liked a lot and that brought significant improvements to AOE II, was the Definitive version.    … Expand
  23. patrickmurphy09
    Aug 30, 2020
    9
    For me, this game defined real-time-strategy. Although I never got into the multiplayer component, gameplay against the AI isn't extraordinarily challenging yet it still provides plenty of variety. And although the graphics are a product of their time, especially compared to the upcoming definitive edition, the graphics would still continue to hold up to this day and were revolutionary forFor me, this game defined real-time-strategy. Although I never got into the multiplayer component, gameplay against the AI isn't extraordinarily challenging yet it still provides plenty of variety. And although the graphics are a product of their time, especially compared to the upcoming definitive edition, the graphics would still continue to hold up to this day and were revolutionary for their time. The single player campaign was fun but not as gripping of a storyline as I would have hoped. Still, it was a fun way to engage the game in all new different varieities. I am eager to revisit this game's definitive edition shortly!… Expand
  24. RozzleMeGozzles
    Aug 2, 2020
    8
    This is a severely underrated game, and rightly so. This had a lot to live up to considering AOE2 was damn near perfect, and a lot of the magic from the second game was lost in this game. However, it is also much more friendly to newer players and has some interesting campaigns to play through. The best part of this game though is by far the skirmish mode. It is essentially a fast pacedThis is a severely underrated game, and rightly so. This had a lot to live up to considering AOE2 was damn near perfect, and a lot of the magic from the second game was lost in this game. However, it is also much more friendly to newer players and has some interesting campaigns to play through. The best part of this game though is by far the skirmish mode. It is essentially a fast paced RTS Team Deathmatch (or free for all). A solid title in the AOE series that deserves praise.… Expand
  25. dlcatalin
    Jul 12, 2020
    7
    The graphics and feeling of the game is right on the spot, for a 3d rts, just perfect. But ...
    I didn't like the fact that buildings where limited in number, and you where very restricted on where and how to build your base. It felt so liniar and childish ... felt nothing similar to the freedom we had in 1 and 2. Progressing ages feels like a rush, no enjoyment.
  26. Shtern
    Jul 5, 2020
    7
    Топовая РТС своего времени. Да что уж там, наверное и сейчас любители покликать найдут себя в ней.
    Если интересен сюжет, тут он есть, если сложность, она привецтвуется, так что можно смело покупать и играть, особенно на распродаже, но даже так игра стоит своих кровных денег.    Топовая РТС своего времени. Да что уж там, наверное и сейчас любители покликать найдут себя в ней.
    Если интересен сюжет, тут он есть, если сложность, она привецтвуется, так что можно смело покупать и играть, особенно на распродаже, но даже так игра стоит своих кровных денег.
  27. Sinmaker
    May 27, 2020
    8
    a ser feita em breve jakjalkahslkdhalkshdlkahslkdahslkdakhldhsaldhaklshdlkahsdklah
  28. Shimmeywill
    Feb 26, 2020
    7
    A strong RTS game with fun units, a good balance of requiring mico management whilst also allowing you to enjoy the spectacle.
  29. UserReviewsLUL
    Feb 15, 2020
    4
    -Clunky combat
    -Downgrade in graphics
    -Large, but empty and boring map.
    -Can not use all skills at the same time.
  30. YFS
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    BEST AOE GAME. AOE II is ****
    +Graphics
    +18th Century
    +Best AOE Story
    +Best Online Experience
  31. BeardyMustache6
    Dec 25, 2019
    10
    It Is EaSILY ThE BEsT AgE oF EMpIRES GaME EVeR! AwESOME VISuALS, GAMePLAY, FLUIdNESS oF ANImaTIONS, AnD HoMeCITY IS ALsO A NiCE PROgrESSION SYsTEM. THIs GaME Is NoT ABSOlUTE SHıT UNLıKE OTHEr AGe oF EMpıRES GAmES.
  32. SilverOrlov
    Sep 25, 2019
    7
    Objectively, the game is good, but I was not specifically interested in it. The second part was awesome for me. Or earlier, the 1st part became for me a kind of "strategic discovery". However, I will not give a bad rating, since the game itself not bad.
  33. shatti
    Apr 20, 2019
    10
    timless classic rts
    still playing it these days and maybe for ever simbly because casual rts games are dead and we are left with these amazing legacy
  34. RafaelBarrera
    Feb 21, 2019
    8
    Such a fun game, compared to the others Age of empires it feels less complex, but the addition of the metropolis was such a good idea (and suited the game hence it was the discovering of America). I feel that games were much shorter than in AoE II, AoM and AoE I for a standard player. It's much faster to pass to the next age and the metropolis made it easier...
    I had many good moments    Such a fun game, compared to the others Age of empires it feels less complex, but the addition of the metropolis was such a good idea (and suited the game hence it was the discovering of America). I feel that games were much shorter than in AoE II, AoM and AoE I for a standard player. It's much faster to pass to the next age and the metropolis made it easier...
    I had many good moments playing it so I give it a 8/10.    … Expand
  35. Zeratex
    Feb 11, 2019
    6
    Improves graphics over the 2nd entry, but downgrades all the depth and gameplay to the strategy of the 2nd.
    Campaign mode is fun and enjoyable but its more like Hollywood movies instead of giving the historical vibe.

    Still nice game worth playing.

    6.5/10
  36. aralath
    Aug 7, 2018
    7
    Good game with good graphics and mechanics. However, it did not excite me as AoE II.
  37. DeadTrack
    May 5, 2018
    10
    multiplayer has to be improved a little bit differently, different things have to be added optimize could be a little better strategy is fed into the game but the game is playing itself on the yini.
  38. YusufBey1453
    Apr 17, 2018
    8
    the game is very nice but there are signs of the cross to the Ottoman ships. history lesson note of the people who maker game made 2% or they been intentional.
  39. Empyrea
    Jul 29, 2017
    10
    I think people are underrating this game. This is a very good game with awesome graphics (if you have a good computer). The story was good and you could choose among many different european nations.
  40. MetaCriticIdiot
    Mar 24, 2017
    10
    I love it.Although the graphics aren't great the aesthetics of the game are better than some modern rts titles,The only thing that I think needs a bit of an improvement is the balance...although the game isn't broken some things might need tweaking
  41. Nel
    Dec 8, 2016
    8
    Really great game, Well designed and a lot of interesting units. I've played it for several hours just by myself, and also with friends. The game when it came out was just a really fun game. It was really easy to get lost in it.
  42. theirrelephants
    Sep 20, 2016
    3
    Loaded it up at a friends house for a quick skirmish against the AI on a hard difficulty setting.

    Fled to an island after my base got sacked in 5-10 minutes, where I promptly discovered that the AI doesn't know how to attack islands. Or even how to go to them.

    This wasn't okay when Warcraft 2 did it, and it certainly isn't okay when an "AI" has the same problem 21 freaking years later.
  43. ariyandi
    Aug 30, 2016
    10
    I love thise game... no more wasting time on making buildings to get resources in faster. The cards add great new demension to the strategy of the game. The only thing that needs to be worked on is the hit points of buildings.. they go down a bit fast.

    TIYAS TRI ARIYANDI
  44. Mahdiar
    Jul 6, 2016
    8
    Gameplay : 9
    Graphics : 8
    Story : 7
    Sound : 7
    **********************************************************************************
    Overall : 8
  45. JustSomeGamer
    Jun 29, 2016
    8
    Great strategy game. The campaign as well as multiplayer are fun and well designed. Can be played casually or more hardcore, it's fun either way. This was one of my first if not my first pc game ever and i have some amazing memories playing this with my friend.
  46. ursynhu
    Mar 10, 2016
    10
    Este jogo é incrível! Eu recebi e ainda não posso parar de jogar. Os gráficos são tão detalhadas para um game e é desafiador, mas divertido e terá que jogar por horas! A história é complexa e profundamente pensado. O melhor jogo que eu já joguei de forma
  47. Fraj26
    Feb 9, 2016
    8
    I recently rediscovered this game, and it definitely is a fine successor to AoE III. Gameplay is somewhat different with the new card system but it kind of enhances the game. However, the online multiplayer system is full of people who know what they are doing and sometimes lack tolerance for noobs. Storyline is good but does not follow historical events in the same way AoE II did.I recently rediscovered this game, and it definitely is a fine successor to AoE III. Gameplay is somewhat different with the new card system but it kind of enhances the game. However, the online multiplayer system is full of people who know what they are doing and sometimes lack tolerance for noobs. Storyline is good but does not follow historical events in the same way AoE II did.
    Overall a good game with good graphics and dynamic gameplay in which you need to spend time and effort to be good versus other humans.    … Expand
  48. digger89
    Jan 25, 2016
    4
    If you enjoyed the stories and single player campaigns of Age of empires 2, avoid this title. The story lines and acting of the campaigns are horrible and is incredibly bad compared to it;s ancestors.
  49. TheMasiMan1
    Nov 20, 2015
    8
    Age of Empires takes the franchise into a great finish for Ensemble Studious. Better graphics, better campaign and more maps. Bu the cons are that there is only 3 resources to gather, witch makes the game easier and the AI is really passive on Easy and Normal. Now they added in Sandbox difficulty setting in witch the AI does nothing, its like its taunting me by easy it is. But on theAge of Empires takes the franchise into a great finish for Ensemble Studious. Better graphics, better campaign and more maps. Bu the cons are that there is only 3 resources to gather, witch makes the game easier and the AI is really passive on Easy and Normal. Now they added in Sandbox difficulty setting in witch the AI does nothing, its like its taunting me by easy it is. But on the otherhand, the harder you go, it gets nearly impossible on the highest settings. The biggest complaint is that the maps are really small and theres only 2 teams. Why? Only 2 teams on small maps? Well... it is still worth buying.… Expand
  50. CheeseSteakJim
    Nov 14, 2015
    8
    Good solid RTS game. Very good, actually. However not up to par when compared with its predecessors. I would recommend Empire Earth 2 over this.
    Introduces some cool new concepts but as a whole it lets the amazing AOE series down.
  51. Renju
    Oct 12, 2015
    10
    If you're a fan of classic RTS games, this is definitely a must have because it is the best in the genre. It is a huge improvement over Age of Empires II with updated graphics and gameplay features. Even if you're not into playing games, this game is sure to entertain you for hours without a doubt. It also has good replay value.
  52. Idontplaygames
    Aug 24, 2015
    10
    Good game, nice graphics and will keep you playing for a long time. So if you like strategy games and war games you should definnitelly play this game.
  53. sirPetanek
    May 23, 2015
    8
    CZ:
    Fantastická real-time strategie ze staré školy. Nádherná grafika, fungující fyzika a celková myšlenka Age of Empires, která nikdy neomrzí. Dobové zasazení je perfektní, jako zbytečnost hodnotím systém domovských měst. Je také škoda, že ve hře je oproti druhému dílu menší možnost výběru ras.
  54. joaopontesvaz
    May 12, 2015
    8
    Graphics: 8.5 Sound: 8.0 Gameplay: 8.0 Fun/Story: 8.0

    Solid and beautiful game. It lacks some innovation but still my favorite strategy game franchise.
  55. TheCaptainFordo
    Jan 14, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. 9 out of 10, and only because i won't give any game a 10 unless it changes my life so drastically that i will play it forever, anyway, let's get right into it. This game is living up to it's legacy, in being innovative and fresh, even now, all this time passed, it still my most played RTS game apart from the original stronghold, but this game I still play, even this very day I played 3 games, sadly however some bugs never got sorted out and the connection in online multiplayer isn't always stable, let alone not being able to join, but this can be easily fixed and forgiven, when enough research is put into it, you gotta port-forward !
    The campaigns are immersive and, not like the former aoe's are fictional and follow a single family in an epic struggle against the circle (a bunch of templars and fanatics on the lookout for the fountain of youth)    … Expand
  56. rpundurs
    Nov 13, 2014
    10
    I must be one of the only people on Earth who prefers AoE3 to its predecessor. 2 is heavy on micromanagement and the mechanics highly favor a defensive strategy, whereas 3 streamlines many elements to cut down on micro; in that regard, I find 3 to be more accommodating of a wider range of strategies, including more high-risk and aggressive options.

    AoE2 is for tactics lovers who want to    I must be one of the only people on Earth who prefers AoE3 to its predecessor. 2 is heavy on micromanagement and the mechanics highly favor a defensive strategy, whereas 3 streamlines many elements to cut down on micro; in that regard, I find 3 to be more accommodating of a wider range of strategies, including more high-risk and aggressive options.

    AoE2 is for tactics lovers who want to maneuver individual units in precise ways, exploiting the game's idiosyncrasies to their fullest. AoE3 can justifiably be criticized for offering fewer rewards for system mastery in this regard. However, I feel that this shortcoming is more than made up for by the new opportunities that are presented once the player's attention is no longer be focused on the minute details of individual soldiers' actions.

    On its own merits, AoE3 is a gorgeous depiction of Enlightenment warfare. The greatest highlight is the Home City system, which adds a great deal of character and uniqueness to each civilization in a way that rewards extended play. I don't know how many hours I spent mastering the Dutch and the Russians - each civilization is unique in play style to begin with, and the Home City adds an entirely new and rewarding layer of depth to strategic decision-making each session. It's perhaps a borrowed feature from the grand strategy or 4X genres, but it blends seamlessly with the established RTS mechanics.

    The second greatest talking point is the naval warfare system - the variety and utility of various ship classes is fantastic, as is the separate population pool for naval units. The only complaint I have is that there are few maps that really give the navy room to play a dominant role in earning the victory.

    Of course, the fundamental gameplay mechanics set down in previous editions remain as solid as ever.

    I must have spent hundreds of hours with this game in high school summers. Now that it's available on Steam, I may spend a few hundred more...

    P.S.: watching your infantry chuck Molotov cocktails and flaming trash at enemy buildings, which are incrementally blown to smithereens in a truly spectacular fashion, is a treat. :)    … Expand
  57. mtighe
    Oct 18, 2014
    2
    AO3 was, in all, a massive letdown. While both predecessors were brilliant and fun strategy games, this edition did little to improve itself. Gameplay is as it has always been, but the units and building lack variety, and tactics are now as simple as "how many units can i throw at this?" The most disapointing part of the game are its graphics. They are legitimately at the level of goldenAO3 was, in all, a massive letdown. While both predecessors were brilliant and fun strategy games, this edition did little to improve itself. Gameplay is as it has always been, but the units and building lack variety, and tactics are now as simple as "how many units can i throw at this?" The most disapointing part of the game are its graphics. They are legitimately at the level of golden for n64. And due to the use of character models in story scenes, these horrible graphics are often showcased. Either be satisfied with AO2, or buy an age of mythology game instead.… Expand
  58. Distrex
    Oct 6, 2014
    10
    Great Game t say the least, amazing graphics improvements from prior Age of Empires Games and addition of other features such as Home cites and leveling systems is awesome, another great feature in which adds another element of strategy's the "cards" system in which allows different civilizations to have specialty cards in which can be called in during game, thus adding a whole new elementGreat Game t say the least, amazing graphics improvements from prior Age of Empires Games and addition of other features such as Home cites and leveling systems is awesome, another great feature in which adds another element of strategy's the "cards" system in which allows different civilizations to have specialty cards in which can be called in during game, thus adding a whole new element of flavor in this already flavorsome game. Whether playing LAN with Friends or online it always proves to be an interesting and action filled experience, where strategy is key, well done Ensemble Studios and Microsoft Games for producing a series in which delivers every time, definitely would recommend this game to any strategy enthusiast or person interested in the genre of strategy.… Expand
  59. simondclinch
    Aug 20, 2014
    7
    It's hard finding good strategy games. I started playing AoE in the first place (v1 back then), because Dungeon Keeper didn't continue after DKII. AoE3 doesn't really offer any strategy upgrade to AoE2 which I might well revert to. As I write multiplayer online for AoEIII has already been taken down. So as futile as it might be to talk about what I'd like to see in AoE4, here would be myIt's hard finding good strategy games. I started playing AoE in the first place (v1 back then), because Dungeon Keeper didn't continue after DKII. AoE3 doesn't really offer any strategy upgrade to AoE2 which I might well revert to. As I write multiplayer online for AoEIII has already been taken down. So as futile as it might be to talk about what I'd like to see in AoE4, here would be my fundamental wish for improvement: Quit the micromanagement - can you really imagine Napoleon personally checking the walls and actioning repairs?? Or directing a settler who became idle when exhausting a llama (note this correct spelling by the way lol we don't want to farm tibetan monks for food!) because they are too dumb to farm a sheep instead which is in front of their face. It needs delegation - I suggest new units like repair managers and farming managers be introduced to take care of such things. Or is it because Microsoft itself is actually run without an organisation structure? ;)… Expand
  60. ccam
    Aug 12, 2014
    5
    In compare with Age of Empires II is a really bad successor. AoE3 is boring, slow and not attractive story line and time. To conservative game, nothing new.
    Not recommended.
  61. anggadaz
    Aug 8, 2014
    8
    The game is good for strategy game. The storyline history is the purpose of game. However the game is not very popular. Although the gameplay and graphic is good.
  62. bacisnipertop62
    Jul 19, 2014
    7
    AOE3... Un jeu vraiment pas mal même si les graphiques son assez vieux ( mais quand même potable ) . Pour moi sa reste un des meilleurs age of empire . Avec différent empire qui ont vraiment chacun leur propre avantage et leur défaut .
  63. Bedgypooks
    Jun 30, 2014
    8
    This is a really fun to play RTS, which was the most gorgeous at the time it came out and the water graphics today still surprise me for being made in 2005. The map design for random maps are decent, some are a little too low on food and sparse on trees so you feel like you are screwed if you spawn in certain locations. I'm reviewing basically the online portion, but I had played theThis is a really fun to play RTS, which was the most gorgeous at the time it came out and the water graphics today still surprise me for being made in 2005. The map design for random maps are decent, some are a little too low on food and sparse on trees so you feel like you are screwed if you spawn in certain locations. I'm reviewing basically the online portion, but I had played the campaign before and it was quite memorable with nice cutscenes as well. Other than French, all of the civilizations you get to choose from are quite even. I can play with Dutch, English or Russians and do just as good with different techniques. The unit design is good and the formations are quite easy to set up. I also like how you can toggle the amount of exp each player has online and if there are idle villagers. I wish that you had the ability to swap a medium/hard AI if someone dropped out of an online game because it happens a lot due to people with bad internet aswell.

    If you are looking for a really solid classic style RTS, that has updated the farms/mills and ability to not have your villagers run back to a storehouse or town center every time to drop stuff off, ala warcraft 3 and AOE 2, then you are in for a real treat. There are so many types of home city drop offs for each city, so you will be choosing new decks frequently for each map or type of opponent you are facing. The ability to change things in your home city is quite cool too. I'd give this game an 8.5/10 for graphics, gameplay and replayability but I can't so I'll give it an 8/10. Don't think it deserves a 9.    … Expand
  64. TheGameTycoon
    Apr 14, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This Game according to me.................is ONE OF THE GREATEST GAMES EVER, I have tried AoE2 (this is technically a venn diagram of the 2) and it is a mess, 1-Villagers must return to homebase or whatever building just to return resouces I mean, 1 second your villager is carrying resources, the next he gets creamed leaving you with a dead colony. Also for those ofyou who think the campaigns are lame, but atleast it combines a little myth, I mean it doesn't mean it's completely magic, in AoE2 you've got several short campaigns, with what? No interrelation Now I really don't have time to write all of this but here's a comparison of the 2
    AoE3/AoE2
    3d/2d
    Guns/All Swords
    Fast by 5 training/Slow by 1 training
    Special Effects/No Obvious Special Effects
    Fast Resource Collection/Slow Resource Collection
    Home Cities and Cards/No Cards nor Home Cities
    Good Skirmish Mode/Horrible Skirmish mode    … Expand
  65. MichMart
    Mar 5, 2014
    6
    This is a good strategy game, but I have some problems with it: The online deathmatch is full of experts with level 100 and above, who are not kind to "noobs" (they judge you by the level you received (with one civilization of course)). The games can last a long time and after awhile it gets a bit booring.
    Nevertheless is Age of Empires III a good game to play with your friends and the    This is a good strategy game, but I have some problems with it: The online deathmatch is full of experts with level 100 and above, who are not kind to "noobs" (they judge you by the level you received (with one civilization of course)). The games can last a long time and after awhile it gets a bit booring.
    Nevertheless is Age of Empires III a good game to play with your friends and the campaign is also good.    … Expand
  66. matrasman
    Mar 3, 2014
    5
    As an AoE II fan I loved how this game was graphically a huge step forward for the series. The game truly comes to life like it never did before. However, I have played this game only about 20 hours. Sometimes I ran the game again but everytime I quit before I even started a game. As soon as the thrill of playing what looks like a new prettier version of a good game wore off, it became aAs an AoE II fan I loved how this game was graphically a huge step forward for the series. The game truly comes to life like it never did before. However, I have played this game only about 20 hours. Sometimes I ran the game again but everytime I quit before I even started a game. As soon as the thrill of playing what looks like a new prettier version of a good game wore off, it became a huge disappointment.
    The campaign is now mostly a fantasy story, while one of the reasons I enjoyed Age of Kings so much was because the scenarios were (based on) actual historical events. Also, there are only 3 storylines in the original game, where AoK had 5 (including 1 tutorial).
    Another great disappointment was the map creator. In Age of Kings this feature alone added a few hundred hours of gameplay to my total. AoE III threw overboard the simple interface in the map creator. As a result, the map creating is so incomprehensible it is virtually impossible to create a map (let alone a scenario) without googling how to do basic things every other minute. And even after searching the web for answers, when I tried to change the map size to bigger than the initial tiny, I got an error message. Because the campaign wasn't that great either, this serious flaw pretty much destroyed any replay value this game had left.
    I was unimpressed by the (lack of) variety and nations as well. Age of Kings and the Conquerors together offered 18 civilisations to play with, whili AoE III and its two expansions together gave 14. True, some strategic elements are improved. Nations have more unique units and technologies, and the naval part is improved a lot. However, I never really played any AoE game for the strategic experience, I play it for fun. And as I find naval warfare not nearly as interesting as knights, soldiers and suicide bombers, those improvements really didn't do it for me. The same goes for the time. AoE III is set in the early modern period in the Americas, just after they're discovered. I was kind of bummed when I found out, because I love medieval strategy with castles and knights and kings. But the game captures the atmosphere nicely.
    Age of Empires III also added a kind of trading card game as a new gameplay element. I do have mixed feelings about that. It really adds a new layer of strategy to the game, and it's quite fun leveling up and upgrading your cards. But I think this doesn't really belong in an AoE game. Because as I said before, I don't play Age of Empires because I want in-depth strategy, I play it because I want to play an easily accessible game with countless different options for different games and just as much options for messing around.    … Expand
  67. Isten
    Feb 26, 2014
    9
    Top RTS: Red Alert, Star Craft 1, Age of Empires 3

    I know there are a lot of AOE2 fans out there who hate on this game....it is all misplaced hate. Villagers are still "weak points" that can be exploited and must be micro controlled. removing the Camp aspect of the game streamlines the whole system. The whole game is pushing you to pressure your enemy early and often in order disrupt    Top RTS: Red Alert, Star Craft 1, Age of Empires 3

    I know there are a lot of AOE2 fans out there who hate on this game....it is all misplaced hate.
    Villagers are still "weak points" that can be exploited and must be micro controlled. removing the Camp aspect of the game streamlines the whole system. The whole game is pushing you to pressure your enemy early and often in order disrupt their flows. It does make map control slightly less relevant, but it also means that troop positioning, flanks and tactical withdrawal makes a whole lot more sense. Establish forward troop production bases and enclaves.

    AoEIII is a streamlined, highly flexible RTS that can punish or reward tactics.
    Like all RTS it has "cookie cutter" flavor of the month builds and some empires are less balanced, but you should really enjoy most any game you play of AOEIII.

    Single player is weak, this is an online game to play with and against friends/foes.

    AI is very good overall.    … Expand
  68. nb123456
    Feb 15, 2014
    10
    best game ever. you can't compare it with aoe2, another world. i need the 150 words aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
  69. Zpray
    Jan 29, 2014
    10
    Age of Empires III was such an amazing game, with fantastic graphics and a lot of new and cool features! And I know Age of Empires IV would be even better, I'll never stop believing!
  70. total
    Jan 27, 2014
    7
    I am going to start off by saying that I am a big fan of the Total War series and I like it better then age of empires so I am biased against this series. I had a lot of fun with this game but then I found the Total War series. Total War trumps this game in all ways except the AI is better in age of empire. If you want fun game get this but if you want a vary fun game get one Total war games.
  71. HaraldtheSkald
    Jan 7, 2014
    8
    Played it for days but the game isn't so attractive. Age of 2 and 1 was more attractive because these two games chosen more interesting topics like Medieval and Civilizations of First Age.
  72. DaEagle
    Oct 23, 2013
    8
    Even though it feels familiar, it is a good sequel. Disappointingly, it doesn't revolutionize nothing, but it's a visual flare and a fun strategy game. It's a nice conclusion to an amazing trilogy.
    It follow relatively the same gameplay as it's predecessor, adding an interesting Home City system. With an awesome timeline, it kept me enjoyed with it's smoothness on overall making strategy    Even though it feels familiar, it is a good sequel. Disappointingly, it doesn't revolutionize nothing, but it's a visual flare and a fun strategy game. It's a nice conclusion to an amazing trilogy.
    It follow relatively the same gameplay as it's predecessor, adding an interesting Home City system. With an awesome timeline, it kept me enjoyed with it's smoothness on overall making strategy and beautiful, just gorgeous visuals. It has you choosing the city and country you want to choose, making strategy and gathering resources with citizen and exploration. The flaw here is that it is rather too familiar to be anything revolutionary.
    However, the old AOE gameplay is fantastic and the visuals will blow you away. It's another great game of the series and it's remarkable. (Final Score: 8.77)    … Expand
  73. Nicolas-SW
    Oct 5, 2013
    3
    This game really dissapointed me, even if the graphics were great, they completely changed the Age of Empires style. This looks like another type of game, with very few civilizations, lame campaign and bad mechanics. This is the reason why Microsoft decided to develop Halo Wars and then shut down Esemble Studios.
    A shame that this game sunk the AOE franchise.
  74. askewreviews
    Sep 13, 2013
    8
    First of all, I want to give Ensemble Studios my thanks for creating one of the most iconic and widely-cherished RTS series of all time. Second of all, I want to say I think this game has been pretty harshly treated in the user reviews. The main reason for this overcritical attitude is the large number of gameplay innovations and evolutions introduced by Ensemble in what was one of theirFirst of all, I want to give Ensemble Studios my thanks for creating one of the most iconic and widely-cherished RTS series of all time. Second of all, I want to say I think this game has been pretty harshly treated in the user reviews. The main reason for this overcritical attitude is the large number of gameplay innovations and evolutions introduced by Ensemble in what was one of their last games.
    I think the deviations in formula were a risky move but they definitely helped revitalize the series AoE II is still a solid game, but it epitomizes the style of pre-2000 RTS games. Ensemble needed to make some real changes or it was possible the series would become stale and outdated only its third full release. A couple of of these changes were definitely questionable (I'll mention them throughout the rest of this review) and they stop AoE III from being a 9/10 game but most of them are welcome additions in my eyes.
    Graphically, Age of Empires III is gorgeous. The unit models haven't improved a huge amount from Age of Mythology, but the textures are more vivid and crisp than ever. Damage animations on buildings look great, with realistic-looking explosions and chunks of debris adding to the chaos of battle. Overall the art-style is both rugged and colourful and it looks beautiful across the board I just wish I could zoom out further! Thankfully there is a great mod that lessens the restrictions on zooming but I don't get why Ensemble chose to lock you into such a small field of view.
    The card system is interesting, and both allows for and encourages experimenting with dynamic strategies. There's more differences between factions than ever and the card system adds even more variety in strategies. There are many viable playstyles in AoE III turtling is always an option because of buildings like the plantation, which are an unlimited supply of coin (replacing gold stone has been removed completely which is a bit of a shame) and really great fortifications. Outposts are effective and the wall placement system is just fantastic even more refined than Age of Mythology's.
    At first I wasn't a fan of the circular maps as opposed to the square and rectangular maps Age fans are used to, but after a while it really only bothered me when it came to using the map editor.
    A more sticking criticism is the simplification of the skirmish/random map options. You can have a maximum of two teams that's it. Your only options are playing FFA or a two-team battle, and it's pretty baffling that there aren't more choices.
    All in all AoE comes close to topping AoM as my personal favourite game developed by Ensemble, but it doesn't quite manage it.
    RIP Ensemble Studios and RIP AoE IV and V.    … Expand
  75. JUANPANB
    Sep 2, 2013
    10
    EXCELENCIA Y PERFECCIÓN, esta gran combinación es mi favorita, en especial si se habla de un videojuego, si se habla de AGE OF EMPIRES, con esta tercera entrega el juego logra mejorar en varios aspectos, logra entretener y lo mas importante divertir al jugador, muy original y logra mostrar la capacidad que tiene MICROSOFT de impresionar.
  76. LibraLizard
    Jun 27, 2013
    0
    Absolute worst multiplayer system/support I have ever seen for a game. 3/4 of the time you can't join a game due to a connection issue, either with friends or strangers. Unless you want to play single player only, AVOID.
  77. Jmsbpp
    Jun 17, 2013
    10
    un excelente juego con varias cosas por destacar entre estas la originalidad y hermosos mapas con cosas grandes por descubrir dentro de el, un buen tema musical.
    Lo que lamento es el pixelado pero no es algo tan grave para bajarle calificacion
  78. heime2003
    Apr 12, 2013
    7
    this game is good only in graphic. gameplay is overly simplified and many flaws in execution of strategy really ruins the game. it tries to give players impression that gameplays are diversified and interesting but all come down to whoever is fast at making unit and economy wins the game in most cases.
    also micro rarely matters which sucks cuz strategy game is meant to give skilled people    this game is good only in graphic. gameplay is overly simplified and many flaws in execution of strategy really ruins the game. it tries to give players impression that gameplays are diversified and interesting but all come down to whoever is fast at making unit and economy wins the game in most cases.
    also micro rarely matters which sucks cuz strategy game is meant to give skilled people edgy to win game
    controls are clunky and expect lots of lag when u play online( this is 7 years old game)
    community is nasty and when u lose in teamgame everyone calls out each other
    in a word, go buy recent rts like sc2:hots    … Expand
  79. Schlafanzug
    Apr 6, 2013
    5
    I could not stand this game. Age of Empires 2 was amazing and Deserves a 10/10, but AOE 3 was just boring. First of all, I do not find the time period interesting at all... Civ Colonization is a much better representation of this. Idk I want to like this game because it's "Age of Empires", but I just didn't like it.
  80. LittleMat
    Mar 25, 2013
    9
    This was the game I grew up with. I had lots of fun playing this for hours and hours. Great game, Great campaign, almost great everything. The multiplayer was very fun, but I would often find lot of issues with the connection and the horrible lag. I also later discovered that when I played Age of Empires 2, it had a much better feel then Age of Empires 3. I felt something was stripped offThis was the game I grew up with. I had lots of fun playing this for hours and hours. Great game, Great campaign, almost great everything. The multiplayer was very fun, but I would often find lot of issues with the connection and the horrible lag. I also later discovered that when I played Age of Empires 2, it had a much better feel then Age of Empires 3. I felt something was stripped off of Age of Empires 3, that should of not been stripped off. Overall great game and I wish more people would play the Age of Empires franchise.… Expand
  81. BlackAkatosh
    Mar 7, 2013
    9
    The realistic graphics is the first thing a player notice in the game. But as the game goes on, you find yourself trapped in the huge number of different tasks your must complete in order to grow your village, collect as many resources as you can and build a considerable defense so you don't get caught off guard, and eventually attack. This is the definition of RTS and this game has theThe realistic graphics is the first thing a player notice in the game. But as the game goes on, you find yourself trapped in the huge number of different tasks your must complete in order to grow your village, collect as many resources as you can and build a considerable defense so you don't get caught off guard, and eventually attack. This is the definition of RTS and this game has the best of it. You don't get bored, because you don't stop commanding your citizens for a second, and you don't get tired of doing the same thing over and over. Different nations allow different tactics, units, buildings keeps you playing and the language npc's speak can be fun. Also the campaign is very interesting, although it's not the best I've seen.… Expand
  82. SlasherKnight
    Jan 13, 2013
    8
    A very satisfactory gaming experience. Good plot, awesome characters, exciting gameplay, and a very intricate level editor. The multiplayer is fun and engaging, and the maps are creative. A real winner.
  83. SpeciallDtectiv
    Jan 13, 2013
    9
    Really Enjoyed the second game in this series, and I love this game even more, the campaign left more to be desired, and was too short in my opinion, in comparison to the other games in the series, but new features such as a home city add a new layer of strategy to the game which makes it a lot more enjoyable and easier to get involved with.
  84. theNILE
    Jan 11, 2013
    2
    Ugh, the graphics even for the time (not even that long ago) were appalling and it hurt my eyes, it takes forever to install, has plenty of bugs and data seems to get corrupted easily, which caused me to re-install a few times (my computer was perfectly fine). Now the single-player is just dreadful, the game-play is 100% dull and the missions have no depth whatsoever, what's more is theUgh, the graphics even for the time (not even that long ago) were appalling and it hurt my eyes, it takes forever to install, has plenty of bugs and data seems to get corrupted easily, which caused me to re-install a few times (my computer was perfectly fine). Now the single-player is just dreadful, the game-play is 100% dull and the missions have no depth whatsoever, what's more is the way you usually go from one mission to another without an established connection and sometimes no explanation of what is going on is just laughable. I remember I didn't even know what I was doing in one of the missions and I had pretty much no fun with the single-player. I believe a game which is - vastly - inferior to it's predecessor in pretty much every way (even the multi-player - just look at the other negative reviews) deserves a terrible score innately.… Expand
  85. grazr
    Jan 3, 2013
    5
    I shouldn't complain about graphics in the context of its release date, so i wont. But the looks do detract a little from what's required of you and how the game mechanics actually work. AoE had a square grid system that was easily translated into tactical options by the player, 1 square could have 1 tree or 1 stone block or a building, etc. and said objects would inform the player whereI shouldn't complain about graphics in the context of its release date, so i wont. But the looks do detract a little from what's required of you and how the game mechanics actually work. AoE had a square grid system that was easily translated into tactical options by the player, 1 square could have 1 tree or 1 stone block or a building, etc. and said objects would inform the player where enemies could move/move around or get through them by destroying them. This system is defunct as units can move through trees, although the proximity of trees that will block units appears arbitrary and the way units move through forested areas insinuates a cover mechanic that doesn't exist. This could have been an excellent aspect of the game that was completely forgone. It all leads to one conclusion that the games combat has not evolved. The macro aspect is emphasised by units being built in 5's, it feels so daft you can just multi-select your structures and set a waypoint at the enemy base and be done with it. That's essentially what the game is, 2 bases throwing units blindly at each other.

    This game is all about macro and economy, which is an odd focus for an RTS when requisition mechanics have always been the most boring aspect of strategy games and how macro dilutes any sense of strategy. Micro plays so little in combat that as long as you match up a bunch of varying units your army is safe, or you can be a bastard and just mass cavalry which is good against everything except pikemen; who can be out maneuvered an kited anyway. The deciding factor is often who can amass the largest army or replenish a dying one fastest. A last note on this matter of micro, units have a habit of freezing up when given orders in quick succession as they'll constantly want to change formation. This is the single most annoying thing about this game as it costs significant time and makes your units vulnerable to being sniped as they dawdle in battles.

    The home city mechanic gets in the way of gameplay. That's all about i can say on this innovation, sadly. You're in the middle of a heated skirmish and you're constantly prompted to visit your home town to select a bunch of stuff that contributes almost no significance to the round. This mechanic seems to only exist to keep players playing to grind and level for pointless rewards. A sad turn for a classic genre defining RTS game.

    The battles and skirmishes aren't interesting, the units aren't defined enough, too much focus on macro and subsequent battles of attrition over tactical decision making. Only recommend buying this game in a sale and playing the campaign if you must play it at all. The multiplayer is tiresome and un-interesting. It will disappoint die hard AoE fans.    … Expand
  86. Frenk-the-Vile
    Nov 23, 2012
    10
    This is, in a few words, the best RTS among ''classical rts''. A game with an interesting, but not complex economy; a base to build and defend, your homecity to level up...Then i have to say i love mechanics like rock-paper-scissor in battles (i.e. cannons>pikes>horses>archers ...), and DECKS to build are a good way to break monotony even with the same ''nation'' used over and over.
    With    This is, in a few words, the best RTS among ''classical rts''. A game with an interesting, but not complex economy; a base to build and defend, your homecity to level up...Then i have to say i love mechanics like rock-paper-scissor in battles (i.e. cannons>pikes>horses>archers ...), and DECKS to build are a good way to break monotony even with the same ''nation'' used over and over.
    With AoE3 i started playing online in a more ''serious'' way, if is it possible to say that ;)    … Expand
  87. Xelm
    Nov 3, 2012
    8
    I had a lot of fun playing this, With a total game play of 25 Hours to play the Complete Edition.
    The only issue i really had is that it did get quite repetitive after a while.

    The details are still pretty good for a older game, The story was fun to for me at least.
    I did get this game on sale though, I'm not sure if i would spend the full price on it. (37 Euro).
  88. DelleAlpi
    Sep 18, 2012
    8
    i used to be an AoE II player.now i play Aoe III quite often.i see the game was released in 2005.compared to other games in the same period,this game's the graphic was extremely outstanding.now people play games with a much stricker attitude since more games are available.
    some sections was cut in this game:theres no more the US,USSR,Spain (they do exist in mods though),etc.and there are    i used to be an AoE II player.now i play Aoe III quite often.i see the game was released in 2005.compared to other games in the same period,this game's the graphic was extremely outstanding.now people play games with a much stricker attitude since more games are available.
    some sections was cut in this game:theres no more the US,USSR,Spain (they do exist in mods though),etc.and there are no more airplanes no more more weapons.    … Expand
  89. GameReviews
    Aug 13, 2012
    8
    Technically is amazing, and it haves a great campaign. Let's not forget about one of the most exiting parts, Skirmish. It's really addictive to level up and upgrade your city. And the Home City option is really good, but the gameplay seems exactly the same, so that's why It's not amazing. But still with the great story and worth adds, this game is a must buy. 87 out of 100
  90. HwoDragon
    Jul 8, 2012
    4
    AOE 3 was a disappointment. It's predecessor was a brilliant, fun strategy game. There were lots of unique civs to pick, historic campaigns to play, and a simple, easy, but flexible map editor. AOE 3 has only a handful of civs, and you have to buy the expansion pack to use any native american civs. There are 3 long campaigns each with 5 minute missions in the place of a ton of shortAOE 3 was a disappointment. It's predecessor was a brilliant, fun strategy game. There were lots of unique civs to pick, historic campaigns to play, and a simple, easy, but flexible map editor. AOE 3 has only a handful of civs, and you have to buy the expansion pack to use any native american civs. There are 3 long campaigns each with 5 minute missions in the place of a ton of short campaigns and a few individual missions. The first campaign was just silly. Magic. No kidding, magic. In the first campaign you have to find the fountain of youth and destroy it to keep a secret organization from using it's powers for evil or something. It sounds like some sort of bad sci fi. Another thing that irritated me when I played was that everything is so... big. The inability to zoom out combined with the fact that every soldier in my army is half an inch tall means that there is very little room on the screen. Not only that, but the maps are very small too. I found myself quickly running out of room to build, and, when I just started and was playing on the easier levels, found myself accidentally destroying an enemy because my guards went rouge. That's another problem. AOE 1 had that command list where you could pick formations, and set units to patrol, guard, escort, or just not attack anything. That's all gone in AOE III. If you want to guard your base with troops, you have to constantly pull them back to keep them from following a trail of retreating enemies back to their home base. In this version, instead of just reducing troop training time, troops train in squads up to 5. Personally, I have no objection to this change though, it saved me one time because I had to train soldiers while under attack, and if they had been coming out 1 by 1 they'd have been slaughtered. And then there's the realism. I'm sorry, but if your unprotected fleeing screaming villager can take over 15 BULLETS TO KILL, there is something seriously wrong. Bullets are incredibly underpowered in this game. Even after buying a special upgrade that gives me massive bonus damage versus villagers, it still took way more bullets than it realistically should have. A game where bow and arrow > gun is one where the laws or reality are warped. There are 2 things in AOE III that keep me from giving it a 2 or 3. The first one is the home city option. Though it isn't exactly "Age of Empires" style, it did a nice job of motivating me to keep playing. After all, I can't just stop with a level 9 home city, I have to go to 10. And after that, why not 15? or 50? Another thing that was fairly well done was the graphics. I don't mean the troops. They all look like a mess of colored triangles. And the buildings just look like buildings. Nice, but nothing to write home about. I'm referring to the thrill I get from positioning 16 cannons in a circle around his town center and firing, watching pieces of it fly 50 feet into the air and land in a shattered heap on top of the mess that used to be a colony. The physics in the game, though also somewhat unrealistic, (Houses appear to weigh nothing, a 20 foot long chunk that must weigh at least 1 ton can be blasted straight up into the air and come back down as if it were a lego brick) are very fun and visually interesting. All in all, this is an okay game, but if you are expecting Age of Empires III, you won't get it. This is just another rts.… Expand
  91. Calciferus
    May 24, 2012
    10
    The concept of the game isn't new at all. Sure, the graphics aren't that bad, but the biggest disappointment I felt came from the reduced unit and nation diversities, that can't be satisfied even though you bought the whole expansions pack.
  92. Cubixreviews
    May 16, 2012
    8
    It is a little disappointed, but still it delivers fun, and It is great. It is good looking, and haves some great units. The graphics are really good, and the new Home City system is a blast! But it isn't good as the sequel of the original game, Age of Empires 2. And you really want to know what disappointments it haves? It is with a poor campaign and with a not changed gameplay from theIt is a little disappointed, but still it delivers fun, and It is great. It is good looking, and haves some great units. The graphics are really good, and the new Home City system is a blast! But it isn't good as the sequel of the original game, Age of Empires 2. And you really want to know what disappointments it haves? It is with a poor campaign and with a not changed gameplay from the first. (8.5)… Expand
  93. Dezuuu
    Apr 4, 2012
    7
    A good, not great, RTS game. The single player is pretty bad and not too complex, but playing with or against friends is a lot of fun. Well worth the price if you know people to play it with.
  94. Rodymetal
    Feb 24, 2012
    9
    Great game really, different than othe AOE games, this game is based on building your colony in the new world with getting shipment from your home city, the system of home city is really great, building a deck and unlocking new shipment is very intersting and will keep you playing, there are a lot of ways to play for every nation in the game and they are vastly different, the skirmish modeGreat game really, different than othe AOE games, this game is based on building your colony in the new world with getting shipment from your home city, the system of home city is really great, building a deck and unlocking new shipment is very intersting and will keep you playing, there are a lot of ways to play for every nation in the game and they are vastly different, the skirmish mode is brilliant, maps and graphics are beautiful, the sound is very crisp and suitable, for such a game released in 2005, this game really lives on (graphics for example is better than the new rts SH3), go to multiplayer you will see a lt of people still playing, you wont find any new game like this style (Historic RTS) anymore so you just have this great game. Get the complete edition with the two expantions, and you will play it forever.… Expand
  95. Kurtz
    Dec 22, 2011
    5
    Really not all to great. Not deserving of the title AOE:III. Age of Empires ii and even i were much much better. Online play wouldn't even work for me. Don't waste your money on this- get age of mythology if you want a 3d aoe type game.
  96. Urrthelurr
    Nov 27, 2011
    9
    This game is awesome. It has nice graphics. It's great for LAN games. And it has excellent game play. I couldn't ask for more in an rts. And the home city system is awesome. It makes each game feel like you're building a colony.
  97. skoob
    Jun 6, 2011
    8
    Awesome! I havent played aoe 2, and when i find it i will : ), but this is one of my favorite games. while living with several annoying people i managed to play this game so much, that i overheated my computer and crashed my hard drive. i bought a new one, and appearently my computer isnt compatable anymore.. anyways i loved it so much i gave it to a friend for his b-day(and $20)... backAwesome! I havent played aoe 2, and when i find it i will : ), but this is one of my favorite games. while living with several annoying people i managed to play this game so much, that i overheated my computer and crashed my hard drive. i bought a new one, and appearently my computer isnt compatable anymore.. anyways i loved it so much i gave it to a friend for his b-day(and $20)... back to the game, the single player is the biggest cob job i have ever seen, but the multiplayer is very addicting. this is almost like suited up stronghold 2 with other players. there are several strategies to win and overall, i would reccomend this to anyone who has the time to play a 2 hour long game of eco-based warfare.… Expand
  98. John23
    Jan 23, 2011
    9
    It's a shame that Microsoft disbanded Ensemble Studios, they created a great game. The graphics are amazing, especially being a 6 year old game. The single-player campaign was decent, it was somewhat interesting but their were some awkward cut-scenes. What makes this game so addicting is its multiplayer. Yes, the game is slowly dying, like all old games do, but their are fan patches andIt's a shame that Microsoft disbanded Ensemble Studios, they created a great game. The graphics are amazing, especially being a 6 year old game. The single-player campaign was decent, it was somewhat interesting but their were some awkward cut-scenes. What makes this game so addicting is its multiplayer. Yes, the game is slowly dying, like all old games do, but their are fan patches and many other options. You shouldn't have a problem finding a game online. Overall, well worth your money.… Expand
  99. gm101
    Oct 6, 2010
    5
    I thought this was going to be just asgood as Age of Empires II, but I was so wrong. Age of Empres II had more civilizations, better gameplay, and overall, a much better game than this!
  100. RMW_Critic
    Sep 24, 2010
    2
    Horrible game. It might have looked good, but it was repetitive, boring drivel. The stroy was decent but the voice acting totally tore the whole game apart. Skirmish was never different, not like games such as Dawn of War 40K or Starcraft, which had at least a little bit of difference in their skirmishes. I found it utterly atrocious.
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Awards & Rankings

35
#35 Best PC Game of 2005
11
#11 Most Discussed PC Game of 2005
3
#3 Most Shared PC Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 52 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 52
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 52
  3. Negative: 0 out of 52
  1. GameSpot
    82
    Those looking for a complex and interesting real-time strategy game with fantastic good looks and some historical flavor will find just what they want in Age of Empires III.
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  2. 1UP
    70
    Age of Empires III takes the conservative approach to the conundrum of how to craft a new experience that remains faithful to the original. While that ensures fans will immediately feel at home with an old friend, it's questionable whether it sets another standard, or merely follows its own.
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  3. Yahoo!
    70
    Age of Empires III would be a damn fine RTS if it came out five years ago. Instead, it's some impressive modern technology and bold gameplay ideas unfortunately saddled by an outdated take on the genre.
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