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Age of Empires® III (2007)

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2012

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Quick resume

Microsoft Studios brings you three epic Age of Empires III games in one monumental collection for the first time.

Global score

91/100

Genres

Simulator, Strategy

Pros

  • Engaging and deep rts gameplay
  • Customizable home city and card system
  • Beautiful graphics for its time
  • Long-lasting replayability
  • Varied civilizations and campaigns

Cons

  • Aging graphics compared to modern games
  • Some balance issues with units
  • Multiplayer population has declined
  • Ai can be weak or predictable
  • Some players find campaigns less engaging

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have significant control over their actions and strategies, including choosing civilizations, managing resources, and customizing home city decks."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game offers skill-based RTS gameplay with strategic depth, unit management, and tactical challenges."

  • Competition
    3

    "Includes multiplayer with competitive matches and ranked play, though some players focus on single-player or casual play."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Many reviews mention long-term engagement, replayability, and habitual play over years."

  • Cooperation
    2

    "Some multiplayer modes involve team play and cooperation, but much gameplay is focused on individual strategy."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players customize home city decks and develop unique strategies; map editor and scenario creation add creative elements."

  • Domination
    2

    "Competitive multiplayer includes exerting superiority over others, but no strong evidence of toxic domination behavior."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Players use the game as a fun distraction and nostalgic escape, enjoying historical and fictional campaigns."

  • Expectation
    -3

    "Players engage voluntarily out of personal interest and nostalgia rather than obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players try different civilizations, strategies, and home city card combinations to explore game mechanics."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Campaigns and map exploration are part of gameplay, though less emphasized than in some other RTS games."

  • Expression
    3

    "Customization of home cities and decks allows personal expression within gameplay."

  • Fantasy
    1

    "While based on historical periods, the game includes fictional storylines and some fantastical elements."

  • Fellowship
    2

    "Community and multiplayer interactions foster a sense of belonging, though many play solo."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop skills, learn strategies, and level up home cities, showing personal development."

  • Health
    -5

    "Standard sedentary computer gameplay with no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires continuous attention and active management during gameplay."

  • Intimacy
    1

    "Some social interaction in multiplayer, but limited evidence of close emotional relationships."

  • Leadership
    3

    "Players lead armies and manage civilizations, making strategic decisions and guiding units."

  • Progression
    5

    "Strong emphasis on accumulating resources, leveling up home cities, and unlocking upgrades."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "Some players find the game relaxing and enjoyable, though it can also be intense and challenging."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Visual and auditory effects are praised, including detailed graphics and sound design."

  • Status
    2

    "Multiplayer ranking and home city levels provide social recognition and status."

  • Story
    2

    "Campaigns have fictionalized historical narratives with characters and plotlines."

  • Strategy
    5

    "Core gameplay revolves around strategic planning, resource management, and tactical combat."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Players enjoy suspense and excitement from battles and competitive matches."

  • Value
    3

    "Many players feel the game offers good value for time invested, especially with expansions included."

  • Violence
    4

    "Combat and destruction are central gameplay elements, with emphasis on military conquest."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players manage threats and resources to maintain and expand their empires, avoiding defeat."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026