Real-time strategy (RTS) games have been a staple of PC gaming for decades, offering intense battles, deep tactical gameplay, and the thrill of managing vast armies in real time. Whether you’re building an empire, commanding futuristic forces, or engaging in historic warfare, RTS games challenge your strategic thinking and decision-making under pressure. If you love the genre or want to dive in, here are some of the best real-time strategy games you can play right now.
Age of Empires IV
Release date: 2021 | Developer: Relic Entertainment, World’s Edge | Available on: Steam, Xbox Game Pass
The Age of Empires series has long been a benchmark for RTS games, and Age of Empires IV continues that legacy. This game takes players through various historical civilizations, from the Mongols to the English, offering large-scale battles, resource management, and engaging campaigns. With improved visuals, strategic depth, and multiplayer modes, Age of Empires IV is a must-play for any RTS fan.
Manor Lords
Release date: 2024 | Developer: Slavic Magic | Available on: Steam
A fresh take on city-building and real-time strategy, Manor Lords immerses players in a realistic medieval world where they manage villages, trade, and warfare. The game emphasizes historical accuracy, with dynamic weather, realistic town planning, and large-scale battles. With deep economic and military systems, Manor Lords is perfect for players who enjoy both strategy and simulation elements in their RTS experience.
Company of Heroes 3
Release date: 2023 | Developer: Relic Entertainment | Available on: Steam
For those who enjoy World War II strategy games, Company of Heroes 3 delivers a gripping mix of tactical combat and large-scale battles. Unlike traditional RTS games, Company of Heroes focuses on cover-based tactics, destructible environments, and squad-based combat rather than massive unit production. The third installment adds new features, including a dynamic campaign map and deep strategic choices, making it one of the best modern RTS titles.
Total War: Warhammer III
Release date: 2022 | Developer: Creative Assembly | Available on: Steam, Xbox Game Pass
Blending RTS with turn-based strategy, Total War: Warhammer III offers massive battles set in the Warhammer fantasy universe. Players can control legendary lords, command vast armies, and engage in real-time tactical battles that feel cinematic and thrilling. With multiple factions, deep unit customization, and an ever-expanding world, this is a game that will keep RTS fans engaged for hundreds of hours.
Age of Mythology: Retold
Release date: 2024 | Developer: World’s Edge | Available on: Steam, Xbox Game Pass
A long-awaited return of a classic, Age of Mythology: Retold brings back the legendary RTS experience with modern visuals and quality-of-life improvements. Set in a mythical world where gods, heroes, and creatures battle for supremacy, the game offers a unique twist on the traditional RTS formula. If you love mythology-based strategy, divine powers, and epic battles, this is a must-play.
Iron Harvest
Release date: 2020 | Developer: KING Art Games | Available on: Steam
Set in an alternate history after World War I, Iron Harvest is a unique RTS that combines traditional strategy mechanics with massive dieselpunk mechs. The game offers a strong single-player campaign, intense multiplayer battles, and deep tactical gameplay. It’s a great pick for players who enjoy both classic RTS mechanics and fresh, innovative settings.
RTS games remain one of the most rewarding and strategic gaming experiences out there. Whether you’re managing historical empires, fighting intergalactic wars, or commanding mechanized armies, these games provide endless hours of fun and challenge. So, if you’re ready to test your tactical skills, pick one from this list and start strategizing!
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