The 10 Best Real-Time Strategy (RTS) Games To Play In 2026

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Introduction

As a longtime strategy game fan, I’m really excited about what’s happening right now! It feels like 2026 is a golden age for the genre. For years, people were saying real-time strategy (RTS) games were dying out, but it’s amazing to see both the classic base-building games I grew up with and a ton of really creative new tactical titles thriving side-by-side. Whether you’re an old-school StarCraft player like me or you’re just looking for a deep, challenging strategy game, there’s so much variety and quality available right now – honestly, it’s the best it’s been in years!

This list highlights the most popular and well-developed games available right now. If you’re interested in strategy games beyond the real-time genre, I’ve also recently covered the 10 I’m most looking forward to in 2026 and a selection of great wargames to keep an eye on. However, if you prefer commanding units in real-time, here’s the ultimate list.

10 – Company of Heroes 3: The WW2 RTS For 2026

Company of Heroes 3 has overcome its initial problems and is now considered the best World War II strategy game available, according to my review. It features two main campaigns: the Italian Dynamic Campaign, which lets you control strategy on a large map and see those choices affect battles, and the North African Operation, a more story-focused experience. Recent updates, like “Scarlet Bison” and “Endure & Defy,” have added new units and a challenging new “Operations” mode with complex missions. Plus, the game is currently on sale!

9 – Age of Empires IV: Historical RTS Done Right

Age of Empires IV is designed to be both a game and a historical learning experience. By early 2026, it’s known for its incredible single-player campaigns, which combine high-quality, real-life historical footage with smooth transitions into gameplay. If you’re looking for a detailed and immersive strategy game where each mission feels like a movie scene, Age of Empires IV offers a level of historical accuracy and storytelling that’s unmatched by other modern real-time strategy games.

8 – Sins of a Solar Empire II: Sci-Fi RTS At Its Finest

Sins of a Solar Empire II is a top-tier real-time strategy game and one of my all-time favorites. My review reflects this, and it was hailed as one of the best strategy games of 2024 upon release. It uniquely combines the depth of grand strategy with the fast-paced action of RTS games. A key feature is its dynamic map – planets move, constantly shifting supply routes and defensive needs as the game evolves. Ultimately, it delivers the definitive “space opera” strategy experience of 2026.

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2026-02-21 17:43