The improvements in Age II are mostly centered on unit size and detail. The units and buildings are two dimensional, following the formula of the first game. They are beautifully detailed and animated and still carry the stylish look made popular in the original title. Buildings are much larger in scale now, making them more imposing and realistically proportionate. Multiple high resolutions are supported, and overall the game is just gorgeous.
Sound effects are very good and the music sets a nice background for the action.
Some of the voiceover narration is a bit on the over-acted side, especially when an accent is used. The game's interface is familiar but features many new options and tweaks. Units may be moved in formation now, something sorely lacking in the previous game. Pathfinding has gotten better, but still needs a little help in certain places, most noticeably when crossing water. Anyone familiar with the first game will feel right at home, and even be able to jump right in and play.