Age of Empires (often abbreviated to AoE or AofE), is a history-based real-time strategy computer game released in 1997. Developed by Ensemble Studios and published by Microsoft, the game uses the Genie Game Engine, a 2D sprite based game engine. The game allows the user to play as the leader of a historical tribe or civilization, advancing through four ages (Stone Age, Tool Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age).