I have to chime in- I just got this game and I find myself liking it. I'm a fan of RTS, although not too good at them sometimes. I liked Warcraft 3 and the tweaks put on it and Age of mythology with its take on upgrades and heroes. The Civ series was always fun but the endgame always got a bit complicated and drawn out for my tastes.
Rise of Nations is very cool. The graphics at first may look a bit primitive since they arent truly 3d but the detail, animations, and the ability to zoom make it more than bearable.
But what I love is the strategy. The conguer the world main game plays out like a game of Risk, with simple moves made on a world map and then missions played out when you invade. And the missions in each map play out differently given the strength and power of the provinces current owner.
Whats more in the tactical missions, there isnt the same level of micromanaging in most RTSs. Your citizens can manage the homefront pretty well, leaving you to play general. And the game uses the concepts of national borders, military supply, and attrition in a great way to prevent the simple build and rush strategy of most games. Generals make a difference adding tactical options like forced amrch and entrenching to your units, which makes them useful to have around.
I heard the hype but I am pleasantly surprised. Rise is actually a nice real time and turn based hybrid.
But thats just my opinion.
