According to reviews and ratings from various platforms, including Metacritic and GameRankings, Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings is often considered the best game in the series. With a average user score of 92% on Steam, it has been praised for its engaging multiplayer mode, immersive storyline, and well-designed campaigns. In contrast, Age of Empires III received an average score of 88% on Steam, with critics praising its improved AI and new unit types, but some finding the campaign too easy and the multiplayer lacking in depth.
That being said, opinions on the best Age of Empire game vary greatly among players. Some prefer the more modern age of empires III for its streamlined gameplay and user-friendly interface, while others still swear by the classic AOE2 for its challenging gameplay and addictive multiplayer.
Ultimately, which one reigns supreme comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for a game with a strong focus on strategy and deep gameplay mechanics, Age of Empires II may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more streamlined experience with improved graphics and sound, Age of Empires III might be the way to go.
It's worth noting that both games have received numerous updates and expansions over the years, including the popular 'The Forgotten' expansion for AOE2, which added new campaigns, units, and multiplayer features.