Ages - Rise of Nations
6,000 years of human history unfold across 8 distinct epochs in Rise of Nations. Each of the 8 epochs in the game represents a time period from history in the real world. Key technological changes like the invention of gunpowder serve as lines between ages. As the game and your nation advance, you will have newer and more powerful units at your disposal.
Ancient ca 2000 BCK
The starting age of the game. The Ancient age offers only Foot troops and Tower defenses. Cities cannot increase above Small size, and Knowledge and Metal do not yet exist, so technologies and units that would cost Metal or Knowledge in future ages cost extra Wealth and Timber.
Classical 1999 BC - 500 AD
Stables, Siege Factories, and Forts can be built, adding to the power of the attack. This is countered by cities increasing to Large size if there are 5 different types of buildings in their sphere of influence. Knowledge and Metal are introduced, and Universities and Mines can be built.
Medieval 501 AD - 1299 AD
Forts become Castles, and Catapults can be upgraded to Trebuchets, which are significantly more powerful. Also, the key Supply Wagon unit is introduced (along with Spies), allowing for effective siege attacks. All unit types can receive upgrades. The Medieval age is considered the height of the defense curve, as it gets easier to attack after the introduction of the Supply Wagon, and in subsequent ages.
Gunpowder 1300 AD - 1715 AD
The introduction of Arquebuses, Bombards, and Dragoons pushes the balance of power toward the attacker. The introduction of Gunpowder is one of the most significant developments in history, and in the game. Getting here with a significant lead could end the game in your favor if you haven’t sacrificed defense to do so, and been conquered in the Medieval Age!
Enlightenment 1716 AD - 1880 AD
Heavy Infantry first gain ranged weapons in the Enlightenment Age, and all units gain significant upgrades, especially Cannon, which go from being primarily siege weapons to having a strong anti-personnel role as well.
Industrial 1881 AD - 1935 AD
A key moment in history and in the game, as new rare resources are introduced, and Oil becomes a necessary commodity. Offsetting this additional economic worry are the enormously powerful Tanks and Airplanes that defined modern warfare.
Modern 1936 AD - 1968 AD
Primitive unit types introduced in the Industrial Age now become potent weapons of war, as Tanks, Fighters, Bombers, and Cruise Missiles become available. The all-important Tactical Nuclear Weapon makes its first appearance in this era, which should incite the wise commander to spread his forces a little more sparsely on the battlefield.
Information 1969 AD - future
All modern upgrades to Economy, Technology, and Military are now available, including Stealth Bombers, ICBMs, and powerful Main Battle Tanks. Once all technologies in the Information Age are researched, special additional technologies become available to bring the game to a dramatic finish.