Age of Empires II won't release until October, but in the meantime, you can read about the game's 13 civilizations at GameSpot. Ensemble Studios and Microsoft are giving GameSpot an exclusive look at every one of the game's different sides; you won't read about it anywhere else. Every two weeks, on Tuesday afternoon, we'll showcase a new civilization. We've got detailed information on each civilization's unique bonuses, their unique unit, strengths and weaknesses, as well as a little historical background on each civ. In addition, Ensemble Studios is providing us with extra information on different buildings and the troops you can build within. From this page you can read what showcases we have so far or visit the official Age of Empires II site.
The Mongols
"The Mongols were the most fearsome conquerers the world has ever known,
and in Age II, they are the fastest and perhaps deadliest of raiders."
Age of Empires II Preview
We've been playing Age of Empires II for three weeks and we've got the scoop on the new campaigns, features, and multiplay, as well as plenty of screenshots. Check out our latest preview on the game in general.
The Vikings
The Vikings struck from the north with fearsome longboats and berserk warriors. You can do the same in Age II.
The Celts
Strong, fierce, fast, and aggressive, the Celts are the first of the raider civilizations. Offensive is the key word here - the Celts are brave at heart - not a civilization for those who want to sit back and build or defend.
The Saracens
Called Saracens by their European rivals, the Arabs of the Middle East created an advanced and powerful civilization fueled by faith.
The Byzantines
The most advanced civilization in Age II reveals her greatest secrets. Find
out why the Byzantines could be the strongest of all cultures in Age of
Kings.
The Goths
Offensive-minded players will like the Goths, who can sack enemy towns with ease due to their strong lineup of infantry.
The Persians
The Persians are one of three Age I civilizations that made the jump to Age
II. They brought their war elephants and some interesting bonuses.
The Teutons
This complex civilization has good defense, quick production, but a slow
and methodical military.
The Franks
Journey to Gaul and witness the rise of the Franks, a military powerhouse in Age II.
The Chinese
Ensemble Studios is bringing us a strong Chinese civilization that has a considerable early game bonus, but doesn't lose steam in the end game.
The Turks
The Age II designers have great respect for the Turks and made sure to turn them into a formidable gameplay civilization.
The Britons
With their deadly longbowmen and ability to expand, the Britons are one of Age II's most powerful civilizations.
The Japanese
Our very first Age II showcase featured the Japanese civilization, who have the fast-striking samurai and an amazing ability to expand early.
Official Age of Empires II site
Go here to visit Microsoft's official AOE II: Age of Kings site.
Ensemble Studios
Age of Empires II is being developed by Ensemble Studios. Visit their homepage to read what they have to say about their upcoming game.
