The game received favorable reviews according to the review aggregation website GameRankings. "IGN" reviewer Jason Bates wrote, "if you are at all interested in turn-based strategy games with a fantasy theme, go get this game." Bates praised many of the game's features including the graphics, gameplay mechanics, editor, and online connectivity, but said the music was uninspiring and called the sound effects "serviceable but bland". "AllGame"s Nick Woods wrote, "If you love strategy and role playing games, "Age of Wonders" is worth the purchase", giving it three-and-a-half stars out of five. However, "GameZone"s Jason Lambert gave it 6.3 out of 10, writing, "Small flaws and annoyances made this game a little less than expected. If you are wanting to play something different than the "Heroes of Might and Magic", "Warlords", or the new "", then you may want to try this game. If you are happy with what you are currently playing, then save your money and buy your mom a Christmas present." Greg Vederman of "NextGen" wrote, ""Age of Wonders" stands tall as one of the best games of the year."