So, you're diving into the world of Age of Empires? Awesome! It's a legendary series, but with so many titles, expansions, and remasters, figuring out where to start can be a bit daunting. Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered. This guide will walk you through the best way to experience Age of Empires, whether you're a newcomer or a returning veteran. We'll look at chronological order, release order, and even a few hybrid approaches to maximize your enjoyment of this iconic RTS franchise.

Understanding the Age of Empires Universe

Before we jump into the order, let's quickly break down the main games in the series. This will help you understand why certain orders might be better than others.

• Age of Empires I (and its Definitive Edition): The one that started it all! This game focuses on ancient civilizations, from the Stone Age to the Classical Age. It's simpler than later entries but still offers a ton of strategic depth.
• Age of Empires II (and its Definitive Edition): Widely considered the peak of the series, Age of Empires II takes you through the Middle Ages with a huge roster of civilizations, complex tech trees, and addictive gameplay.
• Age of Empires III (and its Definitive Edition): This installment shifts the focus to the Age of Exploration and the colonization of the Americas. It introduces new mechanics like Home Cities and card-based upgrades.
• Age of Mythology (and its Extended Edition): A spin-off that blends Age of Empires gameplay with mythology. You get to control civilizations based on Greek, Egyptian, and Norse mythology, complete with mythical units and god powers.
• Age of Empires IV: The latest main entry in the series, Age of Empires IV brings updated graphics, new civilizations, and a more streamlined experience while retaining the core gameplay that fans love.

Option 1: Release Order – The Nostalgic Route

Playing in release order means experiencing the games as they were originally intended, following the evolution of the series step-by-step. This can be a great way to appreciate the advancements made with each new installment. Starting with Age of Empires in its original form, or even better, the Definitive Edition, allows you to see the foundation upon which the entire series was built. You'll experience the limitations and appreciate the innovations that came later. The gameplay is relatively simple compared to later entries, making it a good starting point for newcomers. Moving onto Age of Empires II after that is like stepping into a whole new world. The sheer number of civilizations, the depth of the tech tree, and the refined gameplay mechanics made Age of Empires II a classic for a reason. Experiencing this game in its original form, and then the Definitive Edition, lets you appreciate how far the series has come. The Definitive Edition enhances the experience with updated graphics, new civilizations, and quality-of-life improvements that make it even more enjoyable. After conquering the medieval world, Age of Mythology offers a refreshing change of pace. This spin-off combines the familiar Age of Empires gameplay with the exciting world of mythology. Controlling mythical units and wielding god powers adds a whole new layer of strategy to the game. This is where you can see some of the biggest changes, both visually and mechanically. The game has a very different feel from its predecessors, and that can be a good thing if you're looking for something new. Finally, playing Age of Empires IV last allows you to appreciate the latest innovations in the series. The updated graphics, refined gameplay, and new civilizations make it a worthy addition to the franchise. By playing the games in release order, you get to see how the developers have responded to player feedback and evolving trends in the RTS genre. You also get to truly appreciate each game for what it brings to the table, without being overly critical of older mechanics or outdated graphics.

Option 2: Chronological Order – History Buff's Delight

For the history buffs out there, playing in chronological order might be the most appealing. This means starting with the earliest historical period covered by the games and progressing forward in time. This approach offers a unique way to experience the Age of Empires universe, providing a sense of historical progression as you move through different eras. Starting with Age of Empires I (Definitive Edition preferably) makes perfect sense, as it covers the ancient civilizations from the Stone Age to the Classical Age. This game sets the stage for everything that follows, introducing you to the basic mechanics of resource gathering, city building, and military conquest. From there, you'd naturally progress to Age of Empires II (Definitive Edition), which focuses on the Middle Ages. This era is full of fascinating historical events, iconic figures, and epic battles. Playing through the campaigns in chronological order allows you to experience the rise and fall of various empires, from the Franks to the Mongols. After the medieval period, you'd move on to Age of Empires III (Definitive Edition), which covers the Age of Exploration and the colonization of the Americas. This era is marked by significant technological advancements, global trade, and intense conflicts between European powers and indigenous populations. Playing through the campaigns allows you to witness the expansion of empires, the clash of cultures, and the birth of new nations. Note that Age of Mythology doesn’t quite fit into the chronological order, as it deals with mythical rather than historical events. You could weave it in after Age of Empires I or II as a fun diversion, or save it for last as a palate cleanser. And then you can transition into the world of Age of Empires IV. This latest installment has a different structure with campaigns centered around specific historical figures and events, so it might feel a bit disjointed if you're strictly following a chronological order. You could choose to play the campaigns that align with your current era of interest, or simply enjoy them as standalone stories. Ultimately, the goal is to immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry woven throughout the Age of Empires series. By playing in chronological order, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the events, cultures, and conflicts that have shaped our world.

Option 3: Gameplay First – The Modern Approach

If you're more interested in the gameplay experience than historical accuracy or nostalgia, then starting with the most modern and refined entries might be the best option. This means diving into Age of Empires IV first. Age of Empires IV offers a streamlined and accessible experience with updated graphics, refined mechanics, and a focus on strategic gameplay. It's a great entry point for newcomers, as it provides a modern and polished introduction to the series. The tutorials are well-designed, and the campaigns are engaging, making it easy to learn the ropes and get hooked on the gameplay. After mastering Age of Empires IV, you can then move on to Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition. The Definitive Edition retains the classic gameplay of Age of Empires II while adding updated graphics, new civilizations, and quality-of-life improvements. It's a fantastic way to experience one of the most beloved RTS games of all time. The depth and complexity of the gameplay will keep you engaged for hours, and the sheer number of civilizations to choose from will provide endless replayability. From there, you could explore Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition. While it deviates from the classic formula with its Home City mechanic and card-based upgrades, it still offers a unique and enjoyable experience. The setting of the Age of Exploration is also a refreshing change of pace. After that, give Age of Mythology: Extended Edition a try. It's a fun and lighthearted spin-off that combines the Age of Empires gameplay with the world of mythology. Controlling mythical units and wielding god powers adds a new layer of strategy to the game. Finally, you can go back to the original Age of Empires: Definitive Edition. While it may feel a bit dated compared to the newer entries, it's still worth experiencing to see where the series began. It also can be fun to see just how the game that started it all now holds up by today's standards.

Option 4: The Hybrid Approach – A Balanced Diet

Can't decide? No problem! A hybrid approach lets you mix and match elements from the other options to create a personalized experience. Here's one suggestion:

1. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition: Start with this one. It's the most popular and arguably the best entry in the series, offering a good balance of classic gameplay, historical depth, and modern features. This is a great middle ground, so you can get an accurate feel for the franchise without worrying too much about dated mechanics.
2. Age of Empires IV: Jump to the latest installment to experience the most modern and refined gameplay mechanics. This will give you a taste of where the series is heading.
3. Age of Mythology: Extended Edition: Take a break from history with this fun and engaging spin-off. It's a great way to unwind and enjoy a different take on the Age of Empires formula. Playing Age of Mythology after a more serious and intense game can be a refreshing change of pace.
4. Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition: Explore the Age of Exploration with its unique mechanics and setting. It will feel fresh, due to not playing back to back like the others, so it will feel more unique.
5. Age of Empires I: Definitive Edition: Finish with the original to see how far the series has come. It's a great way to appreciate the evolution of the franchise and understand its roots.

Which Order Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best order to play the Age of Empires series depends on your personal preferences. Do you value historical accuracy? Are you all about the gameplay? Or do you prefer a nostalgic trip down memory lane? Consider your priorities and choose the option that best suits your tastes. No matter which order you choose, you're in for a treat. The Age of Empires series is one of the greatest RTS franchises of all time, and each game offers something unique and memorable. So, grab your mouse, gather your resources, and prepare to build an empire that will stand the test of time! Have fun, guys!