Rise of Nations: Extended Edition

Used to love it back in 2008 when I got introduced to it and now after all these years, I love it all the same.

I was about 9 years old when I used to launch games on Windows XP/7, and Rise of Nations was one of those games that genuinely changed my life. Some games can shape you forever especially when you’re just beginning to explore the world. I’m glad I opened myself up to something new back then. This game, along with a few others, helped me become a more structured and strategic person later in life: learning how to think ahead, earn money, build a reputation, and position myself in society. Back then, things were different. Games could actually develop you, not just push you into repetitive actions. Now it often feels boring to play-AAA companies are mostly trying to squeeze money out of players, while indie developers are the ones still trying to impress. Ironically, many AAA companies built their fortunes on games like Rise of Nations-deep, thoughtful, and made with passion. And now they often follow a path focused purely on monetization. So here’s the point: if you want to understand what a real RTS is, think a little, and still relax-give Rise of Nations a try.

Awesome game... Even after all these years there's still nothing quite like this. Wish a sequel is released one day!