Real-Time Strategy Games With The Best Stories, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Star Wars: Empire At War offers strategic battles between Rebel Alliance and Galactic Empire.
Company Of Heroes 3 delivers immersive World War II experience focusing on camaraderie and sacrifice.
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 blends warfare, politics, and Sci-Fi elements in Cold War setting.

As a seasoned gamer who’s spent countless hours strategizing and commanding armies across galaxies, timelines, and historical periods, I must say that these real-time strategy games with fantastic stories have truly elevated my gaming experience to new heights.

Real-time strategy games have remained one of the most favored genres across various gaming systems for several years, captivating players with the thrill of leading an army or a team of characters. The unique appeal lies in directing these forces strategically, positioning them wisely and planning their actions meticulously to guarantee success.

Several of these games primarily focus on their combat system and diversity of factions to ensure players have an enjoyable time. Yet, some games extend this further, offering captivating narratives that enhance the overall real-time strategy gameplay experience, creating a truly immersive atmosphere. Here are a few real-time strategy games boasting exceptional storylines.

5 Star Wars: Empire At War

A Galactic Conflict Set In The Early Years Of The Empire

Set in one of the most interesting periods of Star Wars history.
Features iconic moments from the saga, such as the destruction of Alderaan.

In the timeframe spanning from Star Wars: Episode III to Episode IV, this game revolves around conflicts between the valiant Rebel Alliance and the malevolent Galactic Empire. It offers a blend of space and ground combat, allowing players to command their troops and make tactical choices to surmount challenges and finally conquer the enemy army. Players are given the freedom to select whether they wish to fight as the Rebel Alliance or the Empire, based on their inclination.

In addition to its epic battles, “Star Wars: Empire at War” recreates significant events from the Star Wars saga, including the devastating attack on Alderaan where massive fleets loom over the planet. The game’s narrative stands out due to its blend of strategic gameplay with an engrossing era in Star Wars history, delving into the struggle that ultimately results in Luke Skywalker joining the Rebel Alliance and embarking on his journey as a Jedi.

4 Company Of Heroes 3

A Grand Strategy Game That Excels At Representing World War II

The story is partially based on historical events.
Camaraderie, sacrifice, and loss are all key ingredients to a good war story.

As a history enthusiast, I find myself immersed in the gripping narrative of Company of Heroes 3, which unfolds during one of humanity’s most challenging eras – World War II. This captivating game transports me across Europe and North Africa, allowing me to participate in the invasion of Italy and North Africa. What sets this experience apart is not just commanding my army forces, but also highlighting the impact of my actions on the broader war effort.

Like many war narratives, Company of Heroes 3 is rich with themes of loss, bravery, and teamwork, making it all the more engaging by heightening the sense of urgency. It merges tactical strategies both in real-time and at an operational level, and while rooted in historical events of that era, offers a captivating strategic adventure that draws players in quickly.

3 Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2

A Cold War Story With Sci-Fi Elements

The game combines warfare and political conflict with Sci-Fi themes.
Wolfenstein fans might find this game very enjoyable, regardless of the difference in genre.

In a setting reminiscent of the Cold War, where tensions between the Allies and the Soviets escalate as they vie for supremacy, players of Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 are tasked with devising strategic plans to fend off attacks from their enemies and emerge victorious. Fortunately, the game offers a selection of powerful superweapons that help mitigate some of the gravity of warfare, even if it adds a touch of whimsy to an otherwise serious theme.

In a different kind of game genre, the blend of Soviet tech and superweapons with modern warfare elements in the game brings to mind the atmosphere found in the Wolfenstein series. Mixing real-life politics with sci-fi elements might seem unlikely, particularly for a real-time strategy title. Yet, the game Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 executes this combination remarkably well.

2 Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos

Set The Standard For Fantasy Storytelling In Gaming

Focusing on multiple factions, the story is rich and complex.
Characters have well-crafted arcs over the progression of the game.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but express my deep admiration for the heart-wrenching saga that unfolds in Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos. From the chilling reign of Arthas and his Scourge, I found myself swept up in a captivating narrative that demands multiple playthroughs.

The tale woven into this game is impressive not just because it boasts a magical environment, diverse factions, and intricate fighting sequences, but also due to its elements of deception, political corruption, and sorrow. To this day, 22 years after its debut, Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos remains highly respected by many as a pioneer in crafting compelling fantasy narratives within the realm of contemporary video gaming.

1 Homeworld

The Heartfelt Struggle Of The Kushan People For Survival

Deep space adventure with a story full of hope and a struggle for survival.
Epic space battles that require strategic thinking.

In conclusion, we also have “Homeworld”, a game that served as the foundation for its subsequent installments like “Homeworld 3”. The story follows the Kushan, a people on a quest to reclaim their homeland. It depicts their fight for existence and the causes of their expulsion from the planet they once named home.

To thrive in this game, players need to sharpen their strategic abilities as they navigate through numerous conflicts taking place across different stages, including thrilling space battles that may not have been visually stunning or mechanically advanced at the time, but were enjoyable and rewarding to conquer. In the year 2015, an improved version of this game hit the market. Although many devoted players adored it, reviews were split, with some gaming platforms awarding it lower scores compared to its original release.

2024-09-07 14:33