Aoe2 Validating Subscriptions ◎ 〈ORIGINAL〉

Right-click the game in Steam, select Properties , and add -nomods to the Launch Options to disable mod syncing entirely.

Here is a comprehensive guide to understanding and fixing this issue. aoe2 validating subscriptions

It checks if you have agreed to the Steam Workshop Terms of Service (ToS). Right-click the game in Steam, select Properties ,

If you are stuck on this screen, try these immediate workarounds: Right-click the game in Steam

It syncs any player-made content you have subscribed to through the workshop.

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