If you ask the right people, you’ll get into a heated discussion about the best real-time strategy games ever made. The RTS genre may not be as popular as others in the gaming world, but its community is incredibly passionate.
It’s also a genre that has many different opinions and preferences. One major divide is whether the focus should be on micromanagement or macromanagement. Another question is how complex the game mechanics can be.
When it comes to RTS games, different players have different preferences. Some players enjoy the slow and strategic approach of spending hours building an army in an AI skirmish, only to wipe out the enemy with a single attack move.
However, others find this type of gameplay boring and prefer fast-paced battles against human opponents. These players value speed, precision, and tactical understanding. It can be challenging to cater to both groups, but a truly great RTS game manages to find a balance and accommodate the preferences of both types of players.
Here, we have compiled a list of the top RTS games in 2024.
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The 30 Best RTS Games in 2024
1. Age of Empires 4
Age of Empires 4 is a highly anticipated real-time strategy game that is set to revolutionize the gaming industry. Developed by Relic Entertainment and published by Xbox Game Studios, Age of Empires 4 takes players on a journey through different historical eras, allowing them to build and expand their own civilizations.
The game offers stunning graphics and immersive gameplay, with a focus on strategic decision-making and tactical warfare. Players can choose from a variety of civilizations, each with its own unique strengths and abilities.
From building magnificent cities to commanding armies, Age of Empires 4 offers a comprehensive and engaging gaming experience that is sure to captivate both new and experienced players alike.
2. Stellaris
Stellaris is a grand strategy game developed by Paradox Interactive. It is set in a vast and ever-changing galaxy, where players take on the role of an interstellar empire seeking to expand its influence and conquer the unknown.
The game offers a unique blend of exploration, diplomacy, warfare, and resource management, allowing players to shape their own civilization and make crucial decisions that will shape the future of their empire.
With a rich and detailed universe, diverse alien species, and a complex web of political and economic systems, Stellaris offers endless possibilities and challenges for players to navigate and conquer. Whether it is through peaceful alliances or ruthless conquest, the choice is in the hands of the player as they strive to become the dominant force in the galaxy.
3. Company Of Heroes 3
Company of Heroes 3 is the highly anticipated third installment in the popular real-time strategy video game series. Developed by Relic Entertainment, this game offers players a thrilling and immersive World War II experience.
Set in the European theater of war, players will have the opportunity to command their own army and make strategic decisions that will shape the outcome of battles. With improved graphics and gameplay mechanics, Company of Heroes 3 promises to deliver an even more realistic and intense gaming experience.
Whether it’s leading infantry squads, coordinating tank divisions, or calling in air support, players will need to utilize their strategic skills to outmaneuver and outsmart their opponents. With a captivating single-player campaign and a robust multiplayer mode, Company of Heroes 3 is sure to satisfy both new and seasoned fans of the series.
4. Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 is a real-time strategy game developed by EA Los Angeles and published by Electronic Arts. It is the third installment in the Red Alert series and was released in 2008.
Set in an alternate history where the Soviet Union has invaded the United States, players are given the option to play as either the Allies or the Soviets in a battle for global supremacy. The game features a diverse range of units, structures, and superweapons, allowing players to employ different strategies to outwit and overpower their opponents.
Red Alert 3 also introduces a unique feature called “co-commanders,” which allows players to team up with or face off against AI-controlled characters to enhance their tactical abilities.
5. Steel Division 2
Steel Division 2 is a real-time strategy game set during World War II. Developed by Eugen Systems, it offers players the chance to immerse themselves in the tactical challenges of the war. The game features a variety of historical battles and campaigns, with a focus on the Eastern Front.
Players can take control of different divisions, each with its own unique units and abilities, and strategically plan their attacks and defenses. The game also offers a dynamic battlefield, with realistic weather effects and day-night cycles, adding an additional layer of realism to the gameplay.
6. Homeworld Remastered Collection
The Homeworld Remastered Collection is a compilation of the critically acclaimed real-time strategy games, Homeworld and Homeworld 2, brought together in a single package with enhanced graphics and improved gameplay mechanics.
Developed by Gearbox Software, this collection offers players a chance to experience the epic space opera that is the Homeworld series, with updated visuals that bring the vastness of the universe to life. The gameplay remains true to the original, with players commanding fleets of spaceships across various missions and engaging in intense tactical combat.
7. Crusader Kings 3
Crusader Kings 3 is a grand strategy game developed by Paradox Interactive. It is the latest installment in the Crusader Kings series and is set in the medieval period, allowing players to immerse themselves in the complexities of ruling a kingdom.
The game offers a vast and detailed map, spanning from Iceland to India, with a plethora of playable characters and dynasties to choose from. Players can navigate through the political landscape, making strategic decisions to expand their territories, forge alliances, and maintain their dynasty’s power.
The game incorporates various elements such as diplomacy, warfare, and intrigue, providing a rich and dynamic gameplay experience. With its intricate simulation of medieval society and engaging gameplay mechanics, Crusader Kings 3 offers players an opportunity to rewrite history and shape the destiny of their kingdom.
8. Supreme Commander Series
The Supreme Commander series is a popular real-time strategy video game franchise developed by Gas Powered Games. The series consists of three main installments: Supreme Commander, Supreme Commander: Forged Alliance, and Supreme Commander 2.
Set in a futuristic world, players assume the role of a commander and lead their chosen faction to victory through strategic planning, resource management, and tactical combat. The series is known for its massive scale battles, with players able to control hundreds of units simultaneously.
Each installment offers a unique storyline and introduces new factions, units, and gameplay mechanics. The series has garnered praise for its depth, challenging gameplay, and expansive multiplayer modes. It has become a favorite among strategy game enthusiasts, with a dedicated fanbase that continues to enjoy the series to this day.
9. Starcraft 2
Starcraft 2 is a popular real-time strategy video game developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment. It is the sequel to the original Starcraft, which was released in 1998. The game is set in a futuristic science fiction universe and revolves around three unique factions: the Terrans, the Zerg, and the Protoss.
Each faction has its own distinct playstyle and units, allowing for diverse strategies and gameplay. Starcraft 2 features a compelling single-player campaign, where players can experience an engaging storyline and control each faction.
Additionally, the game offers a competitive multiplayer mode, where players can face off against each other in intense battles. Starcraft 2 has become a staple in the esports scene, with professional players and tournaments showcasing the game’s strategic depth and skillful gameplay.
10. Rome: Total War
Rome: Total War is a strategy video game developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega. It was released in 2004 and quickly gained popularity for its immersive gameplay and historical accuracy.
The game is set in ancient Rome during the time of the Roman Republic and allows players to take on the role of a Roman general, leading their armies to victory in epic real-time battles.
Players must manage their resources, construct buildings, recruit and train soldiers, and navigate complex political and diplomatic relationships in order to expand their empire and conquer their enemies.
Rome: Total War offers a vast and detailed campaign map, allowing players to explore and conquer various regions of the ancient world.
11. Warcraft 3
Warcraft 3 is a real-time strategy game developed by Blizzard Entertainment and released in 2002. It is the third installment in the Warcraft series and is set in a fantasy world called Azeroth. In the game, players can choose from four different races, including Humans, Orcs, Night Elves, and Undead, each with their unique units and abilities.
The gameplay revolves around resource management, base building, and commanding armies to defeat the enemy. Warcraft 3 introduced many innovative features, such as hero units with special abilities and a powerful map editor that allowed players to create custom maps and scenarios.
The game also had a strong focus on its immersive storyline, with an engaging single-player campaign that followed the struggles of various factions. Warcraft 3 has become a beloved classic among gamers, known for its deep gameplay mechanics, rich lore, and lasting impact on the real-time strategy genre.
12. Dawn Of War
Dawn of War is a popular real-time strategy (RTS) video game series developed by Relic Entertainment. Set in the fictional Warhammer 40,000 universe, the game allows players to take control of various factions and engage in intense battles across different planets.
The gameplay features a combination of resource management, base building, and tactical combat, offering a challenging and immersive experience. With its rich lore and engaging storylines, Dawn of War has captivated fans of both the Warhammer franchise and RTS genre.
The series has spawned multiple expansions and sequels, each introducing new factions, units, and gameplay mechanics. Overall, Dawn of War has established itself as a beloved and enduring franchise in the gaming community.
13. Dune: Spice Wars
Dune: Spice Wars is a highly anticipated video game that is set in the rich and expansive universe of the Dune series. Developed by Funcom, this real-time strategy game is based on the iconic science fiction novels written by Frank Herbert.
The game immerses players in the world of Arrakis, a desert planet known for its valuable resource called spice. As leaders of one of the noble houses, players must navigate politics, manage resources, and wage wars to gain control over the spice trade.
With stunning graphics, immersive gameplay, and a captivating storyline, Dune: Spice Wars promises to deliver an unforgettable gaming experience for fans of the Dune series and strategy game enthusiasts alike.
14. Age of Mythology
Age of Mythology is a real-time strategy video game developed by Ensemble Studios and published by Microsoft Game Studios. It was released in 2002 and is set in a mythological world where players control gods and mythical creatures from various ancient civilizations.
The game features three playable factions: the Greeks, Egyptians, and Norse, each with their own unique units, gods, and abilities. Players must gather resources, build structures, train armies, and engage in battles to conquer their opponents.
What sets Age of Mythology apart from other strategy games is its incorporation of mythology and fantastical elements, allowing players to summon powerful mythological creatures and unleash divine powers.
The game also includes a single-player campaign, multiplayer modes, and an extensive editor for creating custom scenarios and campaigns.
15. Red Alert 2
Red Alert 2 is a real-time strategy video game developed by Westwood Studios and released in the year 2000. It is the sequel to the original Red Alert game and is set in an alternate timeline where the Soviet Union is still a global superpower.
The game features two factions, the Allies and the Soviets, each with their unique units and abilities. Players must strategically build and manage their bases, gather resources, and engage in intense battles to achieve victory.
Red Alert 2 is known for its fast-paced gameplay, immersive storyline, and iconic units such as the Kirov Airship and the Chrono Legionnaire. With its captivating gameplay and engaging multiplayer mode, Red Alert 2 has become a beloved and enduring classic in the real-time strategy genre.
16. Total War: Warhammer 3
Total War: Warhammer 3 is the highly anticipated third installment in the Total War: Warhammer series. Developed by Creative Assembly, this game combines the grand strategy and tactical gameplay elements of the Total War franchise with the rich lore and iconic characters from Games Workshop’s Warhammer Fantasy Battles universe.
Set in a dark and fantastical world, players will have the opportunity to lead powerful armies and wage epic battles across a variety of landscapes, from icy tundras to haunted forests. With a diverse roster of legendary heroes, monstrous creatures, and devastating spells, Total War: Warhammer 3 offers a captivating and immersive experience for both fans of the Total War series and Warhammer enthusiasts alike.
Players will have the chance to shape the fate of the world as they choose between four distinct factions, each with their own unique playstyles and objectives. Whether it’s leading the demon-infested forces of Chaos, the noble forces of Order, the undead legions of Death, or the savage hordes of Destruction, Total War: Warhammer 3 promises to deliver an unparalleled strategy gaming experience.
17. Total War: Three Kingdoms
Total War: Three Kingdoms is a strategy video game developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega. Set in ancient China during the Three Kingdoms period, the game offers players the opportunity to experience the intense conflicts and power struggles that characterized this era.
With a focus on both turn-based strategy and real-time battles, Total War: Three Kingdoms allows players to take control of one of several factions and lead them to victory through a combination of military tactics, diplomacy, and resource management.
The game features a rich and detailed campaign mode, where players can engage in political intrigue, form alliances, and build their empire. Additionally, the game offers a challenging multiplayer mode, where players can test their skills against others in epic battles.
18. Civilization 6
Civilization 6 is a turn-based strategy game developed by Firaxis Games. It is the latest installment in the renowned Civilization series, allowing players to build and develop their own civilization from scratch. The game offers a wide range of options and strategies to choose from, including diplomatic, cultural, and military approaches.
Players can choose from a variety of leaders, each with unique abilities, and guide their civilization through different eras, starting from ancient times and progressing towards the modern age.
19. Endless Legend
Endless Legend is a turn-based strategy game developed by Amplitude Studios and released in 2014. Set in the fantasy world of Auriga, the game offers players the opportunity to lead one of the unique factions in a quest for dominance.
With its immersive lore and stunning visuals, Endless Legend offers a captivating gameplay experience. The game features a variety of gameplay elements, including city management, diplomacy, exploration, and tactical battles.
Each faction in the game has its own distinct playstyle and abilities, allowing players to approach the game in different ways. Endless Legend has received positive reviews from both critics and players for its deep gameplay mechanics, strategic depth, and engaging narrative.
Whether you prefer to build a powerful empire through diplomacy or conquer your enemies through force, Endless Legend offers a rich and rewarding strategy experience.
20. Age of Wonders 4
Age of Wonders 4 is a highly anticipated turn-based strategy game that is set to be the next installment in the popular Age of Wonders series. Developed by Triumph Studios, this game takes players on a journey to a fantasy world where they must lead their civilization to victory through strategic decision-making and tactical battles.
With a rich and immersive storyline, players will have the chance to explore a vast and magical world, encountering various factions and creatures along the way. Age of Wonders 4 promises to deliver stunning graphics, deep gameplay mechanics, and a plethora of new features that will surely captivate both new and old fans of the franchise.
21. Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition
Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition is a remastered version of the classic real-time strategy game that was first released in 1999. Developed by Forgotten Empires and published by Xbox Game Studios, this edition brings back the beloved gameplay of the original while enhancing it with stunning 4K graphics, improved sound effects, and a re-orchestrated soundtrack.
With over 200 hours of gameplay, players can once again immerse themselves in the medieval world, choosing one of 35 civilizations to lead to victory through strategic warfare, resource management, and diplomacy.
The Definitive Edition also introduces new content, including four new civilizations, three new campaigns, and quality-of-life improvements, making it a must-play for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.
22. Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun
Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is a tactical stealth game developed by Mimimi Games and published by Daedalic Entertainment. Set in Japan during the Edo period, players take control of a team of skilled assassins who work together to carry out covert missions for the Shogun.
The game offers a unique blend of real-time strategy and stealth gameplay, challenging players to carefully plan and execute their moves in order to successfully complete each mission.
23. Northgard
Northgard is a popular strategy video game developed by Shiro Games. Set in a Viking-themed world, players take on the role of a clan leader and must navigate through a harsh and unforgiving land.
The game offers a unique blend of exploration, resource management, and combat. Players must expand their territory, gather resources, and build and upgrade buildings to support their growing population. Additionally, they must balance their economy, research new technologies, and engage in diplomacy with other clans.
24. Wargame: Red Dragon
Wargame: Red Dragon is a real-time strategy video game developed by Eugen Systems. It is the third installment in the Wargame series and focuses on the Cold War era, specifically the period from 1975 to 1991.
The game offers players the opportunity to take control of various military forces from different countries, including the United States, China, and North Korea, among others. With an extensive range of units and vehicles, players can engage in intense battles on land, sea, and air.
Wargame: Red Dragon also features a dynamic campaign mode, where players can experience the escalating tension and conflicts of the Cold War. The game has received positive reviews for its detailed graphics, realistic gameplay mechanics, and strategic depth, making it a popular choice for fans of the real-time strategy genre.
25. Iron Harvest
Iron Harvest is a real-time strategy game set in an alternative 1920s Europe, where giant mechs known as “Diesel-Punk” are the primary weapons of war.
Developed by King Art Games, the game offers a unique blend of traditional RTS gameplay and tactical combat, allowing players to control their own armies and engage in intense battles.
Set in a post-World War I era, Iron Harvest explores the aftermath of the war and the social, political, and technological changes that have occurred.
26. Empires of the Undergrowth
Empires of the Undergrowth is a real-time strategy game that allows players to take on the role of an ant colony and build their empire underground. Developed by Slug Disco Studios, the game offers a unique and immersive experience as players manage resources, expand their territory, and defend against rival colonies.
With a strong emphasis on strategic decision-making and efficient resource management, Empires of the Undergrowth provides a challenging and engaging gameplay experience. The game also features realistic ant behaviors and a detailed ecosystem, making it an educational experience as well.
Whether it’s constructing intricate tunnels, engaging in intense battles, or exploring different ant species, Empires of the Undergrowth offers a fascinating and addictive gameplay that keeps players hooked for hours.
27. Frostpunk
Frostpunk is a popular survival city-building game developed by 11 bit studios. Set in a post-apocalyptic frozen world, the game challenges players to lead the last remnants of humanity and build a new society in the face of extreme cold and dwindling resources.
As the ruler of a generator-powered city, players must make difficult decisions to ensure the survival of their citizens. These decisions range from managing the limited workforce and resources to implementing laws and policies that may have moral and ethical implications.
The game’s unique blend of strategy, resource management, and moral dilemmas provides a captivating and thought-provoking gameplay experience.
28. Rise of Nations
Rise of Nations is a real-time strategy video game that was developed by Big Huge Games and published by Microsoft Game Studios. It was released in 2003 and quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of turn-based strategy and real-time tactics.
The game allows players to take control of a nation and guide it through different ages, from ancient times to the modern era. Players can choose from a variety of civilizations, each with its own unique strengths and abilities.
They must manage resources, research technologies, build cities, and lead their armies in battles against other nations. Rise of Nations offers a deep and immersive gameplay experience, with a wide range of strategies and tactics to explore. It is considered one of the best real-time strategy games of all time and has garnered a dedicated fan base.
29. Meier’s Gettysburg
Meier’s Gettysburg is a highly regarded historical simulation game that allows players to experience the famous Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War.
Developed by Sid Meier, a renowned game designer, Meier’s Gettysburg offers players the opportunity to command either the Union or Confederate forces as they strategically plan and execute their moves on the battlefield.
The game provides a detailed and realistic recreation of the topography, troop movements, and key landmarks of the Gettysburg battlefield. With its intuitive interface and historically accurate scenarios, Meier’s Gettysburg has become a popular choice for history enthusiasts and gamers alike who wish to immerse themselves in one of the most significant battles in American history.
30. Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II is a real-time strategy game that is set in the dark and brutal universe of Warhammer 40,000. Developed by Relic Entertainment and published by THQ, the game was released in 2009.
It takes place on the war-torn planet of Aurelia, where players take on the role of an elite Space Marine commander leading a squad of highly trained soldiers. Unlike its predecessor, Dawn of War II focuses more on squad-based tactical combat rather than base-building and resource management.
Players must strategically deploy their units, utilize cover, and make use of special abilities to overcome their enemies.
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