Age of Empires II refines the classic real-time strategy formula with medieval civilizations, balanced tech trees, and campaigns spanning iconic historical figures and battles.
- Developer/Publisher: Ensemble Studios / Microsoft
- Release: 1999 on PC; later expansions and the Definitive Edition on modern platforms
- Genre: Real-time strategy (RTS)
- Notable: 13+ distinct civilizations with unique units/bonuses, rock-paper-scissors military balance, economic depth (villagers, farms, trade), map variety and random maps, robust multiplayer and scenario editor
- Reception: Widely acclaimed; one of the most enduring RTS titles with an active competitive and mod community, revitalized by the Definitive Edition