If you’re a fan of high-stakes tactics, rapid decision-making, and outwitting opponents on the battlefield, real-time strategy (RTS) games are your ultimate playground. In RTS games, every click counts as you control armies, manage resources, and deploy your strategy in the heat of battle. Ready to dive into the genre? Here’s our list of the top 10 real-time strategy games that every RTS enthusiast needs to check out!
Top 10 Real-Time Strategy Games
StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty
When you think of RTS games, StarCraft II is bound to pop up. As a staple of the genre, StarCraft II took competitive gaming to a whole new level. Set in a futuristic, space-faring universe, the game pits three factions—the Terran, Zerg, and Protoss—against each other.
Each faction has a unique playstyle, keeping matches thrilling and unpredictable. The game has a steep learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, there’s no going back. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, StarCraft II remains one of the most iconic RTS experiences.
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition
A true classic, Age of Empires II has survived the test of time and remains a fan favorite. Released over two decades ago, it continues to attract new players thanks to its polished Definitive Edition. In Age of Empires II, you choose a civilization and
guide it from the Dark Ages to the Imperial Age, building your empire, gathering resources, and waging wars. With a massive roster of civilizations and campaigns based on historical events, this game appeals to both history buffs and strategy lovers alike.
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2
Nostalgia reigns supreme with Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2. Set in an alternate history where the Allies and Soviets clash in an intense global conflict, Red Alert 2 introduced quirky units and fast-paced gameplay that made every battle a blast.
Known for its unique factions, humorous cutscenes, and memorable units (like attack dolphins and Tesla troopers), Red Alert 2 has a cult following to this day. If you’re looking for an RTS with personality, this game has it in spades.
Warcraft III: Reforged
Before World of Warcraft ruled Azeroth, there was Warcraft III. This game is known for its complex storytelling, memorable characters, and the introduction of hero units, which add an RPG flavor to RTS.
Warcraft III lets you control orcs, humans, undead, and night elves as they battle it out across a fantasy landscape. While Warcraft III: Reforged received mixed reviews, it’s still a must-play for its immersive lore and classic mechanics.
Total War: Shogun 2
Total War: Shogun 2 is perfect for those who love grand strategy and tactical warfare. Set in feudal Japan, this game combines turn-based management with real-time battles, giving players a hybrid RTS experience.
You command armies of samurai and archers, engage in naval battles, and manage diplomacy as you try to become the Shogun of Japan. The game’s depth, stunning visuals, and historical accuracy make it a top-tier RTS for fans of epic battles and intricate strategy.
Company of Heroes 2
Company of Heroes 2 shifts the focus to World War II and adds a dose of realism to the RTS genre. Rather than simply amassing an army, you must consider factors like terrain, weather, and morale as you navigate intense combat scenarios.
Company of Heroes 2 stands out for its gritty atmosphere and tactical depth. It doesn’t just test your ability to plan but also demands quick responses to shifting battlefield conditions, making it a gripping choice for RTS enthusiasts.
Rise of Nations
Rise of Nations merges the traditional RTS formula with elements of civilization-building, allowing players to guide their nation from ancient times to the modern age. It offers a satisfying mix of combat, economy, and technology advancement.
The game’s “territory” mechanic adds an extra layer of strategy, as players must defend and expand their borders to succeed. With a streamlined gameplay style that’s easy to pick up, Rise of Nations offers a unique take on the genre that’s both accessible and rewarding.
Halo Wars 2
Halo Wars 2 brings the legendary Halo franchise into the world of real-time strategy. Set in the Halo universe, this game combines the lore and intensity of Halo with strategic gameplay, letting you control UNSC forces or the Banished.
The game simplifies traditional RTS controls for console players without sacrificing depth, making it a standout title for Xbox users. Plus, with cinematic storytelling and action-packed gameplay, Halo Wars 2 offers a refreshing twist for fans of both RTS and Halo.
Homeworld Remastered Collection
If you’re looking for something that feels truly epic, Homeworld Remastered Collection delivers with stunning space battles and emotional storytelling. Homeworld was groundbreaking when it launched, introducing full 3D movement in an RTS game.
The remastered collection updates the visuals and makes the gameplay even smoother. The game follows the journey of a civilization trying to find its lost homeworld, all while battling enemies in the vastness of space. With breathtaking visuals and an atmospheric soundtrack, Homeworld is a must-play for space strategy fans.
Empire Earth
Empire Earth is often referred to as the “spiritual successor” to Age of Empires, but it takes things a step further, covering history from prehistoric times to the future. You can choose from numerous epochs, from the Stone Age to the Nano Age, each with unique units, technology, and strategies.
The game’s sheer scope and variety make it a unique RTS experience, allowing you to play through different eras in a single campaign. If you want a game that gives you complete control over history, Empire Earth has you covered.
These top 10 Real-time strategy games offer an adrenaline-packed experience where every decision counts, and the games on this list represent some of the best the genre has to offer.
Whether you’re leading space marines against alien invaders, guiding samurai across feudal Japan, or rewriting history with an ancient civilization, RTS games provide endless hours of challenging and rewarding gameplay.
