Rise of Nations

The graphics of "Rise of Nations: Extended Edition" have received mixed reviews, with many players noting that while the visuals have been modestly improved from the original 2003 release, they still show their age compared to modern standards. Some appreciate the nostalgic charm and detail of the graphics, particularly in unit and building designs, while others express a desire for a more significant graphical overhaul to match contemporary titles. Overall, the gameplay remains the highlight, with many players feeling that the graphics, though dated, do not detract from the overall experience.

The music in "Rise of Nations" is widely praised as one of the standout features of the game, with many players considering it among the best soundtracks in the RTS genre. Reviewers highlight its complexity, variety, and ability to enhance the gameplay experience, often reminiscing about its nostalgic value. However, some users have reported issues with music playback, including glitches and volume inconsistencies, which detract from the overall enjoyment.

The game's story aspect is a mixed bag, with some players appreciating the historical campaigns and varied missions that allow for strategic depth, while others find the narrative lacking and repetitive. Many reviews highlight that the gameplay mechanics overshadow the story, with some missions feeling like mere skirmishes rather than engaging narratives. Overall, while there are enjoyable story modes and scenarios, the focus remains primarily on gameplay rather than a compelling storyline.

The game boasts exceptionally high replayability, with players praising its diverse campaigns, unique nations, and customizable settings that ensure each playthrough feels fresh. Multiplayer modes and various difficulty levels further enhance the experience, allowing for countless hours of engaging gameplay. Overall, it is regarded as one of the most replayable titles in its genre, appealing to both solo and multiplayer enthusiasts.

The game's stability is widely criticized, with numerous reports of bugs, glitches, and crashes, particularly in multiplayer modes. Many players experience issues such as freezing, graphical errors, and non-functional mechanics, especially on Windows 10. While some users note improvements over time, the overall consensus is that the game remains unstable and often frustrating to play.

The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews; while it runs smoothly on modern hardware and operating systems, some players report issues such as stuttering, lag in multiplayer, and crashes. Although the remaster improves graphics and performance, many feel it still lacks the optimization needed to fully meet contemporary standards. Overall, while some users praise its performance, others highlight significant optimization problems that detract from the experience.

Overall, players find the grinding aspect of the game to be a mixed experience; while it can be tedious and sometimes feels like it requires a "second life" to manage, there are also engaging elements like city takeover that make resource management more interesting. Some reviewers note that the grind can detract from immersion, especially in later game stages, but others appreciate the tactical depth it offers. Despite its grindy nature, many still find enjoyment in the game's strategic possibilities.

The humor in the game is characterized by its chaotic and absurd scenarios, such as cavemen battling tanks and historical figures making comically questionable decisions. Players find the experience particularly entertaining when shared with friends, leading to memorable moments and inside jokes, like the rivalry over building resources. Overall, the game successfully blends strategic gameplay with a lighthearted, humorous tone that resonates with both nostalgic and new players.

The monetization aspect of the game is praised for its absence of modern practices such as in-app purchases and microtransactions, which many players find refreshing. However, some reviews express concern that the game may be a cash grab, with reports of bugs and a lack of updates, suggesting a decline in quality and support. Overall, the game is appreciated for its straightforward approach to monetization, contrasting sharply with the prevalent trends in the industry.

Players express a deep emotional connection to the game, highlighting feelings of heartbreak over its changes and cancellations, particularly regarding the cancellation of "ron 2." The game evokes nostalgia and a sense of genuine engagement in its war-like scenarios, with some players finding it a comforting escape from more intense emotional experiences in other titles.

The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its beautiful maps, immersive sound design, and powerful music that evokes a historical feel. The combination of realistic fighting settings and painterly graphics enhances the overall experience, making players feel deeply engaged in city-building and resource gathering.