: Widely considered the "RTS Masterpiece," it is often ranked as the best overall entry due to its deep strategic layers and massive active player base.
: Notable for its unique "Home City" system and focus on the colonial era and early industrial warfare.
The series typically focuses on guiding a civilization from humble beginnings through various historical "Ages" by managing four primary resources: .
: Players advance through eras (e.g., from the Stone Age to the Iron Age in the original game) to unlock more powerful units and advanced technologies.
: A spin-off that swaps historical facts for legends, featuring gods, heroes, and mythical creatures. Player Safety and Community Support