Aoe2 Validating: Subscriptions
If the soft reset fails, your stored credentials are corrupted. This sounds technical, but it is actually very simple:
Why this is scary but effective: You are deleting the "keys" to the kingdom. When you launch the game, Windows creates brand new, clean keys, guaranteeing no mismatch. aoe2 validating subscriptions
If you are currently staring at the "AOE2 Validating Subscriptions" screen, force close the game via Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc). Then, work through this list from top to bottom. If the soft reset fails, your stored credentials
If none of the above works, your antivirus is likely the warden blocking the gate. Remove them all