Word from Microsoft is that Ensemble Studios' Age of Empires II Age of Kings has gone gold. Here's the poop on availability and other pimpage they sent along:

In anticipation of the long-awaited release, Microsoft has partnered with two key retailers, Electronic's Boutique and Babbages, to offer consumers the chance to pre-order the game. For a limited time, Electronic's Boutique is giving away a Limited Edition Player's Guide with every pre-order and Babbages is offering a set of Limited Edition Collector's Cards that detail each of the game's unique civilizations and offer game play hints and tips. Gamers can also pre-order the game at Microsoft's online store.