Age of Empires II vs Europa Universalis II
Age of Empires II
Age of Empires II is, despite being a sequel, a classic real-time strategy game from the crtically-accalaimed game franchise, Age of Empires. The graphics in the game has been reworked to pull it up to level with modern graphics, but the content of the game is essentially the game. Choose one of 18 unique civilizations to play with and dominate the map by eliminating your enemies or by other means, depending on the goals of the match. You can even play the game with other players from all around the world on Steam via the game's multiplayer mode.If you enjoy classic real-time strategy, Age of Empires II is a game you wouldn't want to miss. It may not be the original "first" game, but since the revamped Age of Empires 1 has yet to arrive (1 more month to go), you might as well brush up on your skills by playing the sequel first!
Europa Universalis II
Europa Universalis II is what many have deemed as the best sequel to Europa Universalis. Set during the period where the hundred-year war occured, you'll need to lead your country's expansion and guide the growth of its domestic and foreign policies, while engaging in religious battles and sending expeditions to beat the competition and claim large swathes of the new world. Similar to the original game, you'll get to, depending on your decisions, interact with historical figures and momentous events (some of which though are special, random events).However, this time around, the game has a revamped and frankly much improved system for diplomacy, trade, military and overall country development. You can even demand tribute or knock out deals in order to make peace with a foreign nation. As religion is often the cause of war, this aspect has been greatly expanded in Europa Universalis II, requiring you to actually deal with cultural differences between nations of different religions.
In some way, Europa Universalis II managed to not only build on the game design used in the first game; it has also introduced a series of new features of its own. This is exactly why the game has gotten critical acclaimation from both fans and critics alike back when it was first released. So, if you love grand strategy games, you'll want to check this game out.