7 Unbeatable Real-Time Strategy Games of the 2020s: Ranked!

Summary

RTS games like Stronghold: Warlords introduce innovative mechanics for players to master.
Dune: Spice Wars offers diverse factions and unique resources for varied gameplay experiences.
Iron Harvest provides gameplay inspired by historical events, with a dieselpunk twist.

In this piece, we’re discussing the fact that the real-time strategy genre has a rich history that spans many years. Over time, numerous top-notch games have emerged within this category, providing players with the immersive experiences they anticipate from such games. Remarkably, there are also options for those who typically avoid this genre, demonstrating its adaptability and broad appeal.

Strategy games from the late ’90s and early ’20s (which might seem surprising due to their release dates) were revolutionary, featuring advanced game mechanics and combat scenarios that left countless players in awe. While some newer games tend to play it safe, the current decade’s strategy offerings are equally captivating. Here are some of the top real-time strategy games from this decade so far.

7. Stronghold: Warlords

The Introduction Of Warlords Greatly Complements The Experience

Introduction of Warlords
Part of the popular Stronghold franchise

In 2021, the game titled “Stronghold: Warlords” was launched, belonging to the well-known “Stronghold” series, which dates back to the early 2000s. What sets this game apart from its predecessors is the inclusion of 8 neutral AI-managed warlords, a feature not present in earlier versions of the franchise.

In this game, Warlords offer resource packs, troops, and other beneficial items that can significantly boost players in combat. Despite the divided reviews for Stronghold: Warriors, it remains an enjoyable play and is recommended for anyone passionate about real-time strategy games. Many Stronghold enthusiasts believe that some of the earlier versions could benefit from a remastering to restore their original greatness.

6. Dune: Spice Wars

A Great Real-Time Strategy Game Inspired By The Popular Movie Franchise

Seven different factions
Resources like polar ice caps can produce great amounts of water

On the well-known desert planet of Arrakis, featured in numerous Dune film adaptations, the game Dune: Spice Wars offers a thrilling real-time strategy experience. In this game, you’ll gather essential resources like spices and minerals. Additionally, there are frozen ice caps that can generate large quantities of water for players.

In the game Dune: Spice Wars, there are seven distinct factions to choose from: House Atreides, House Harkonnen, House Corrino, House Ecaz, House Vernius, the Fremen, and the Smugglers. This diverse lineup offers a rich gaming experience. Unlike other real-time strategy games that introduce characters over time, Dune: Spice Wars emphasizes the inherent power of each faction right from the start, ensuring players get the depth they expect.

5. Iron Harvest

Heavily Inspired By The Soviet-Polish War Of The Early 20th Century

Dieselpunk elements that make the game interesting
Fast-paced gameplay

Drawing profound influence from the Polish-Soviet War spanning 1919 to 1921, Iron Harvest is situated in an alternate historical universe where anything could happen and conflict is ever-present. The game is frequently characterized as having a dieselpunk mecha aesthetic, which lends it a unique charm and creates an intriguing contrast with the era it portrays.

In Iron Harvest, you’ll enjoy engaging real-time strategy dynamics and an array of thrilling campaigns for players to conquer. Additionally, the rapid gameplay in this strategy title adds an extra layer of excitement to your gaming experience.

4. Sins Of A Solar Empire 2

A Great Sequel To A Title That Captured Thousands

Deep space battles
Players have full control over their strategy

Initially, the game titled “Sins of Solar Empire” became extremely popular upon release due to its captivating space setting and unique blend of combat systems, combined with real-time strategy features.

In “Sins of a Solar Empire 2“, players have the ability to swiftly focus in on multiple technical skirmishes to make sure every aspect of their tactical offensive plan is effectively executed. These battles occur in the vast expanse of outer space, providing players with stunning vistas as they annihilate enemy fleets. Despite the limited number of games in the “Sins of a Solar Empire” series, it’s fair to say that it stands among the top echelon of real-time strategy game franchises.

3. Company Of Heroes 3

An Outstanding Addition To The Company Of Heroes Series

Implementation of the new Tactical Pause System
Interactions with commanders are very impactful on the narrative

Launched in February 2023, “Company of Heroes 3” is a fantastic addition to an established series, enhancing its renowned aspects and introducing innovative features for gamers to delve into and utilize. This edition incorporates the Tactical Pause System, a feature missing from earlier versions, enabling players to temporarily halt a battle and issue several commands simultaneously.

Essentially, in this narrative, a large portion remains true-to-life even with the introduction of the latest system, which keeps things exciting thanks to battles and conversations with commanders. The Company of Heroes series is an engaging choice for various reasons, one of them being its significant impact on the real-time strategy genre.

2. Frostpunk 2

Tons Of Challenges That Players Will Have To Face Under Inclement Conditions

Constant struggles in a post-apocalyptic setting
Players take on the role of “the Steward”

Regarding city-building survival games featuring real-time strategy, Frostpunk 2 is undeniably one of the leading candidates, given its ability to deliver an engaging gaming experience and its distinctive idea, skillfully set within an immersive environment.

As a gamer, I find myself stepping into the shoes of a city administrator in the year 1916, three decades post the cataclysmic “Great Storm” depicted in the original game. In this narrative, I assume the role of ‘The Steward’, tasked with maintaining the harmony and efficiency of New London, a city still grappling with the aftermath of the calamitous event. The challenges ahead are daunting, but as The Steward, it’s my responsibility to keep the city ticking like a well-oiled machine, come what may.

1. Crusader Kings 3

An Outstanding Title Set In The Middle Ages

The game’s map is more detailed and larger than its predecessor’s
Dynasties can form cadet branches

In the tradition of its earlier versions, Crusader Kings 3 integrates aspects from real-time strategy and large-scale strategy games, along with dynastic simulation genres, all within a setting based on the Middle Ages.

As a devoted enthusiast, I’ve been thrilled to discover that the developers have crafted a map for this game that boasts four times the detail compared to the one in Crusader Kings 2. This not only enhances the overall gaming experience but also offers players a wider range of possibilities to strategize with greater ease. The addition of cadet branches through dynasties, mirroring historical practices, adds an authentic touch to the game, making it feel more realistic and immersive.

2025-03-27 01:35