Microsoft Age of Empires PC Game Instruction Manual

Introduction

Age of Empires is a real-time strategy game developed by Microsoft, spanning ten thousand years of human history. Players guide a Stone Age tribe through various historical ages, building civilizations, managing resources, and engaging in strategic combat. This manual provides essential information for installing, operating, and troubleshooting the game on compatible PC systems.

System Requirements

Before installation, ensure your computer meets the following minimum requirements for optimal performance:

• Operating System: Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, Windows Me.
• Processor: Pentium 90 MHz or higher.
• Memory (RAM): 16 MB for Windows 95/98, 24 MB for Windows NT 4.0.
• Hard Drive Space: 50 MB available.
• Graphics: Super VGA 256-color monitor.
• Sound: Sound Blaster or compatible sound card.
• Input: Mouse and keyboard.
• Other: CD-ROM drive (4x speed recommended).

Note: Compatibility with newer operating systems like Windows 7 or Windows 8 is not guaranteed and may require specific compatibility mode settings or community-developed patches.

Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to install Age of Empires on your PC:

1. Insert the Game Disc: Place the Age of Empires installation CD into your computer's CD-ROM drive.
2. AutoPlay: If AutoPlay is enabled, the installation program should start automatically. If not, navigate to "My Computer" or "This PC", right-click on your CD-ROM drive, and select "Open" or "Explore". Locate and double-click the "Setup.exe" file.
3. Follow On-Screen Prompts: The installation wizard will guide you through the process. Read each screen carefully.
4. License Agreement: Accept the End User License Agreement to proceed.
5. Installation Type: Choose a "Typical" or "Custom" installation. Typical installation is recommended for most users.
6. Destination Folder: You can choose the installation directory or accept the default location.
7. Complete Installation: Allow the installation process to complete. This may take several minutes.
8. Restart Computer: You may be prompted to restart your computer after installation. It is recommended to do so.

Figure 1: Age of Empires PC game box art. The game requires a physical disc for installation and play.

Operating the Game

After successful installation, you can launch and play Age of Empires.

Launching the Game

1. Insert Play Disc: Ensure the Age of Empires play disc is in your CD-ROM drive. The game requires the disc to be present during gameplay.
2. Start Menu: Go to the "Start" menu, then "Programs" (or "All Programs"), locate the "Microsoft Games" or "Age of Empires" folder, and click on "Age of Empires".

Basic Gameplay

• Resource Gathering: Villagers are essential for gathering resources such as food, wood, stone, and gold. Right-click on a resource to assign a villager to collect it.
• Building Structures: Select a villager and use the build menu to construct buildings like houses, barracks, and town centers.
• Advancing Ages: Progress through the Stone, Tool, Bronze, and Iron Ages by gathering sufficient resources and researching advancements at your Town Center. Each age unlocks new technologies and units.
• Unit Control: Select individual units or groups of units by clicking and dragging a box around them. Right-click on a destination to move them, or on an enemy unit/building to attack.
• Objectives: Campaigns have specific objectives. In standard games, victory conditions can include conquering all opponents, building a Wonder, or achieving an economic victory.

The game features a tutorial mode that provides an interactive guide to basic controls and strategies. It is recommended for new players.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your Age of Empires game disc:

• Handle with Care: Always hold the disc by its edges to avoid fingerprints and scratches.
• Storage: Store the disc in its original case when not in use, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity.
• Cleaning: If the disc becomes dirty, gently wipe it with a soft, lint-free cloth from the center outwards. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while installing or playing Age of Empires, consider the following solutions:

• "Insert Play Disc" Error: Ensure the correct game disc is fully inserted into the CD-ROM drive. Sometimes, the drive may not read the disc properly; try reinserting it or cleaning the disc.
• Game Not Launching/Crashing:
  • Verify your system meets the minimum requirements.
  • Update your graphics and sound card drivers.
  • Try running the game in compatibility mode for Windows 95 or Windows 98. Right-click the game's executable file, select "Properties", go to the "Compatibility" tab, and choose the appropriate operating system.
  • Close other background applications that might be consuming system resources.
• Slow Performance:
  • Reduce in-game graphics settings if available.
  • Ensure your computer meets or exceeds the recommended system requirements.
  • Defragment your hard drive.
• Missing Files/Corrupt Installation: Reinstall the game. Ensure your CD-ROM drive is functioning correctly and the disc is clean and free of scratches.

For further assistance, consult the game's official support resources or community forums.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, please refer to the documentation included with your game purchase or visit the official Microsoft support website.

Microsoft Support Website