Ok After trying go get several methods to work, I found the right way to do this. I used the batch file method which automatically turns off the explorer when the game launches. HOWEVER, the instructions are lacking and partially incorrect. Below will
give the exact instructions for making the correct file.
Start Button --> Run --> Type "notepad" ---> OK
Note: If you cant find the Run button, right click on the start button --> Properties --> Start Menu tab --> Customize... button --> Scroll 3/4 down and check the box that says "Run Command". The Run button will now be in the start menu.
In the notepad, copy and paste the following lines into the notepad:
taskkill /F /IM Explorer.exe
age2_x1.exe
Start explorer.exe
Go to File --> Save As
File Name: age2.bat
Save as type: All Files (VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU SELECT THIS, OR IT WILL BE SAVED AS A TEXT FILE)
Place the file in this directory:
C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\Age of Empires II\age2_x1
Make sure the age2_x1 file is in this directory as well. It should be there already from installing the game.
You are done. When the game launches, your explorer will close and the colors in game will be fine. Once the game closes, explorer will come back online. Hope this is easy for everyone to understand.