Age of Empires II: The Conquerors vs The Settlers II: Veni, Vidi, Vici
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Age of Empires II: The Conquerors is the acclaimed expansion to the classic real‑time strategy masterpiece, adding five new civilizations, new campaigns, and a wealth of gameplay refinements. It builds on the solid foundation of the original, delivering deeper strategic options and richer historical scenarios for both solo and multiplayer experiences.
In this classic real‑time strategy title, you guide a stranded Roman legion as they establish settlements, manage resources, and fend off rival cultures such as Vikings, Nubians, and Asiatics. The game blends deep economic simulation with a Roman theme, offering both single‑player campaigns and multiplayer battles on a single screen. The 1996 release introduced improved graphics, split‑screen multiplayer, and a transport management system that many fans consider the series’ high point, making it a beloved entry among strategy enthusiasts.
- Rich addition of new civilizations
- Deep strategic depth
- Strong multiplayer community
- Extensive modding tools
- Deep and rewarding economic simulation
- Distinct Roman aesthetic sets it apart
- Split‑screen multiplayer adds local competition
- Highly regarded as the series’ best installment
- Graphics are dated compared to modern RTS titles
- AI can still be predictable on higher difficulties
- Limited native support for newer operating systems without patches
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- Limited AI difficulty scaling
- No official online multiplayer support
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Age of Empires II: The Conquerors
View all →
Expand your historical empire across time from Ancient Rome to 24th Century Mars.
Lead historic civilizations to victory in timeless real‑time strategy battles.
Lead new civilizations through history in this strategic expansion pack.
Lead civilizations through 15 epochs of human history in this epic real-time strategy game.
Alternatives to The Settlers II: Veni, Vidi, Vici
View all →
Build thriving cities and dominate rival settlements on a mysterious island
Build thriving medieval towns, manage settlers, and conquer empires.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataIf you value cheap price and local split‑screen play with deep economic simulation, go with Settlers II; if you want more civilizations, online multiplayer and richer content, choose Age of Empires II: The Conquerors.
Key differences
- •Settlers II offers split‑screen local multiplayer (up to 4); Conquerors offers online multiplayer (up to 8).
- •Conquerors adds five new civilizations, three campaigns, and a map editor; Settlers II focuses on Roman‑themed economy with fewer scenarios.
- •Price: Settlers II costs $29.99, while Conquerors costs $39.99.
- •Graphics: Conquerors includes HD and widescreen enhancements; Settlers II has improved 1996 graphics only.
- •Audience rating: Settlers II is ESRB E (everyone); Conquerors is ESRB T (teen).
Pricing & value
Settlers II is $10 cheaper ($29.99 vs $39.99), offering lower entry cost.
Gameplay & fun factor
Both provide deep RTS experiences—Settlers emphasizes economic simulation, Conquerors emphasizes warfare.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Conquerors supports online multiplayer up to 8 players; Settlers II only has local split‑screen.
Content & replayability
Conquerors adds five civs, three campaigns, and a map editor; Settlers II offers limited AI opponents and no editor.
Graphics & performance
Conquerors provides HD graphics and widescreen support; Settlers II’s graphics are dated 1996 visuals.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both have AI limitations—Settlers II limited scaling, Conquerors AI can be predictable.
Platform availability
Platform details not specified for either title.
Choose Age of Empires II: The Conquerors if…
Players who prioritize online multiplayer, more civilizations, and extra campaign content.
Choose The Settlers II: Veni, Vidi, Vici if…
Players who want cheap, local couch co‑op and love detailed economic building.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
Settlers II costs $29.99; Age of Empires II: The Conquerors costs $39.99.
Do either of them support online multiplayer?
Only Age of Empires II: The Conquerors supports online multiplayer (up to 8 players).
Which title has more content like campaigns or editors?
Age of Empires II: The Conquerors includes three campaigns, five new civilizations, and a map editor; Settlers II does not.