Age of Empires 3 had the problem of being the long-awaited third in a renowned series, and is often remembered as the "off" game in the series. That is a shame, because it is a great game in its own right.

Rather than the traditional empire-forging of its predecessors, III focuses on the colonial exploits of European powers from the 1500's into the 1800's in the Americas. Though the scale does admittedly feel smaller than in previous games, this idea is captured well. The Home City system, in which players can summon shipments of troops, supplies, or upgrades from "Europe" creates a feeling that one is a part of a bigger empire. Likewise, making trade posts in native villages and along paths to recruit natives, learn native techs, and gain resources builds the "colonial" experience. And though there are only 8 civilizations, they are more distinct that in II. Had this been called "Age of Colonization," it would still be adored to this day.