In AoE2, particularly the HD (2013) Edition, this screen appears upon launch to verify:
Let’s get you back to the Feudal Age. Perform these steps in order. Do not skip the easy ones.
This is not a monthly subscription like Netflix or World of Warcraft. AOE2 is a one-time purchase. However, the game uses a "subscription" model to validate three specific things: aoe2 validating subscriptions
When you launch an Age of Empires II game that relies on Microsoft's Xbox Live infrastructure—even if you bought it on Steam—the title must check that you have a valid license to play. This includes verifying:
A browser page or Steam overlay may open showing the workshop; you can safely close it out immediately. In AoE2, particularly the HD (2013) Edition, this
Locate the text field at the bottom of the menu. Type in -nomods (or -nostartup to skip the videos as well). Launch the game normally. 4. Clear Corrupted Mod Profiles and Desync Logs
If your subscription is invalid, expired, or not properly verified, you might encounter errors or limitations, such as: This is not a monthly subscription like Netflix
Click the Workshop button in the game launcher (rather than "Play") and manually accept the Workshop ToS if prompted. Long-Term Solutions for Permanent Fixes
Often, a new patch or DLC release causes 30–60 minutes of validation delays worldwide. In that case, make some tea. Even Viper can’t speed up Microsoft’s servers.
It syncs any player-made content you have subscribed to through the workshop.