When it comes to real-time strategy (RTS) games that stood the test of time, few have achieved the legacy of Age of Empires. Released in 1997 by Ensemble Studios and published by Microsoft, Age of Empires was more than just a strategy game — it was a historical journey through the ancient world. Blending elements of resource management, empire-building, and warfare, it paved the way for a new generation of RTS titles.