In the beginning, the Egyptians built the pyramids. Cleopatra was there, and so was Julius Caesar. He built the Roman Empire. Then it crashed and burned while some guy named Nero played the fiddle.

If this is your idea of ancient history you've probably been playing too many computer games. But now you can play games and learn about history with my all-time favorite real-time strategy game, "Age of Empires."

Version one came out in 1998 and caused me many sleepless nights. I'm more hooked than ever.

AOE II picks up in the feudal era. You can play out a variety of authentic historic scenarios (like Joan of Arc), create your own random scenarios, or play against others on the Internet.

There's some bloodshed here, but the game rewards planning, strategy, and even diplomacy, so it's educational in more ways than one.

For kids and grown-ups alike, "Age of Empires" is a great way to learn history and have fun. Just be ready for some sleepless nights!