The Best RTS (Real-Time Strategy) Games On PC For 2025

In the early days of computer gaming, real-time strategy (RTS) games were a key component, and they’ve made a strong comeback with more options than ever before. This article takes you on a journey through the expansive realm of the Top RTS Games for PC in 2025, examining popular titles like the enduring favorite “Age of Empires 2” and the intense combat of World War 2’s groundbreaking “Company of Heroes.” We’ll uncover the elite choices within this genre, with many of these games easily accessible on Steam. Whether you’re an experienced strategist or new to the genre, this comprehensive guide keeps you up-to-date on the best RTS for PC in 2025.

In this list, you’ll find the real-time strategy (RTS) games that I currently favor. However, keep in mind that my preferences might shift over time, so feel free to offer your own suggestions or point out any essential RTS games I may have overlooked!

20 – Red Alert 2

Many people hold a dear place in their hearts for Red Alert 2, and for me, it brought an unmatched happiness to my childhood gaming experiences, as it was the second real-time strategy (RTS) game I’ve ever played (with Age of Empires II being the first). This timeless RTS masterpiece remains one of the top RTS games you can enjoy today, stirring feelings of nostalgia and endless pleasure, while showcasing some of the best sprite-based graphics ever created.

Red Alert 2 seamlessly merges an engaging narrative with instantly recognizable factions from the Command & Conquer franchise, resulting in a distinctive mix of strategy and humor. This blend creates a lasting impression, earning it the status of a cherished classic that remains relevant among gamers spanning multiple generations, thanks to its timeless charm, particularly noted in its FMV scenes.

The captivating graphics, unique units that remain iconic even today, and its strategic complexity are what keep Red Alert 2 popular. Its user-friendly interface and straightforward mechanics make it suitable for both veterans and novices of the strategy genre. Whether you were executing brilliant military tactics or using the Chronosphere’s destructive power, Red Alert 2 consistently provided a visual treat along with its share of humor. Who wouldn’t want to travel back in time to save Einstein?

19 – Dawn of War 2

Initially released during Relic’s successful run, Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II significantly differed from its predecessor by emphasizing tactical strategies on a smaller scale. Each unit was equipped with multiple skills, necessitating careful management (it leaned more towards a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena game than others). Abandoning the base-building aspect, it concentrated heavily on the four key elements that made Company of Heroes popular: fire, fix positions, outmaneuver, and defeat the enemy.

Following Dawn of War 3’s disappointment in meeting expectations set by its predecessor, Dawn of War 2 continues to hold the distinction as one of the finest Warhammer games ever created, standing the test of time as a classic. It is celebrated for its innovative and intriguing gameplay mechanics, making it one of the most captivating real-time strategy (RTS) games during its era, or perhaps even of all time. As one of the top RTS games available today, it offers an engaging mix of intense combat, strategic depth, and a deep dive into the vast Warhammer universe.

Simply put, imagine Company of Heroes, but with Space Marines and Orks.

18 – Supreme Commander

The concept of insanity? It’s about cramming as many units into a solitary map. Launched in 2007, a year following the success story of Company of Heroes, Supreme Commander stood in stark contrast to its predecessor. While CoH focused on intricate small-unit tactics and micro-management, Supreme Commander took a step back (figuratively speaking), offering massive armies engaging in battles over both short and long ranges.

To this very day, its grandeur is scarcely surpassed, and it continues to serve as an iconic choice for fans eager for massive conflicts on an epic scale.

17 – Bad North: Jotunn Edition

A very innovative idea, skillfully implementing its streamlined real-time strategies by maintaining a defensive focus throughout gameplay, with the objective being to consistently prevent Viking invasions from burning down buildings on each island. In an era where strategy games are trying to cut excess, it seems only Bad North has mastered this art.

If you’re seeking a casual gaming experience, ‘Bad North’ might be perfect for you. It’s like a tasty snack for your mind, easy to pick up and play when you want something simple yet engaging, without the need for deep concentration usually required in more complex games.

16 – Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion

One unique aspect of Sins of a Solar Empire was blending 4X (Explore, Expand, Exploit, Exterminate) features with real-time strategy, creating a genre blend that remains popular among space enthusiasts today. Its grand scale, intricate star systems, and the engaging mix of diplomacy and combat earned it recognition as one of the top RTS games during its time.

In addition to its superb visuals, there’s an energetic community dedicated to customization that makes playing in the Mass Effect, Halo, and Star Wars universes even more delightful. The modding scene ensures you have a wealth of options for each game.

The outstanding graphics combined with a vibrant user-created content community make gaming in the Mass Effect, Halo, and Star Wars worlds all the more scrumptious. Modders provide a bounty of choices for each title, enriching your experience.

The sequel to Sins of a Solar Empire is currently being developed on the Epic Games Store, and when it’s finished, it’ll be available on Steam as well.

15 – They Are Billions

A real-time strategy game could be crafted around zombies as an engaging premise for implementing the classic tactic known as “turtling”. Turtling involves constructing a colossal fortress with invincible barriers, allowing players to unwind while artificial intelligence repeatedly assaults their stronghold. Inside this fortification, inhabitants lead content lives in a flawlessly operating, self-sustaining economy, oblivious to the fact that beyond the city walls, there is only despair and destruction.

In “They Are Billions,” you play the role of a mayor tasked with constructing towering defenses robust enough to fend off swarms of enemies numbering in the millions… Or perhaps it’s more precise to say tens of thousands.

The film “They Are Billion” was a hidden treasure that didn’t receive the appreciation or attention it should have when it was released in 2019, and since then, it has largely faded from public awareness.

14 – Rome 2: Total War

In essence, Rome II by Creative Assembly, despite its initial flaws, has been transformed into one of the top-tier Total War games. However, I find myself drawn more toward the original game, especially with its remastered version, which offers no reason for me to pass it up as you’ll soon discover in the following recommendations.

Nonetheless, Rome II has its advantages today, following a decade of updates and improvements. Unlike the initial release, the campaign has been significantly expanded, offering superior building sequences and a more intricate political framework.

The reason for its delay is that combat unfolds more quickly, contrasting with the original Rome’s sophisticated battle system which considered factors like unit collisions, mass, and experience. It also simulated each aspect individually rather than relying mostly on strict class match-ups.

13 – Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition

Every discussion about the Real-Time Strategy (RTS) genre invariably includes Age of Empires II, and it frequently outshines other games, even twenty years after its initial launch.

Since its debut in 1999, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition has firmly established itself as a go-to choice among players and still ranks highly in 2025. Players can immerse themselves in constructing and managing their civilization, while engaging in intense battles with other nations. Uncover the reasons behind its enduring popularity as one of the top RTS games of 2025 by delving into the strategic depth offered by this classic title.

This game delivers breathtaking visuals, advanced artificial intelligence, and fresh material such as four additional civilizations and three unique campaigns. The gameplay offers a mix of difficulty and satisfaction, while the multiplayer option keeps entertainment at an all-time high. If you’re new to the Middle Ages or simply looking to revisit a classic you might have overlooked, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is an excellent choice for you, with its well-structured single-player campaigns and exciting updates.

12 – Age of Mythology

21 years have passed since the original launch of the timeless game, Age of Mythology, created by the same team responsible for Age of Empires – Ensemble Studios. In the year it debuted, it sold more than a million copies. Excitingly, in 2022, they announced an updated version called Age of Mythology: Remastered!

Age of Mythology transformed the series by upgrading its graphics to 3D and creating a captivating universe filled with gods, humans, and mythical creatures living side by side. This game was a significant part of my childhood, as I spent countless hours playing it when I first got it at age 11. To this day, the main theme is etched into my memory, note for note.

What made Age of Mythology distinctive from Age of Empires was its exceptional campaign that featured all three pantheons (Greek, Norse, and Egyptian), as you guided Atlantian Admiral and war hero, Arkantos, against the forces of Gargarensis. To this day, Arkantos remains one of my favorite characters in any Real-Time Strategy game.

11 – Starcraft 2

Starcraft 2 is universally recognized as the supreme example of an outstanding esports RTS game. It’s not just one of the best RTS games available now, but its exceptional quality also places it among the greatest RTS games ever made. If I were more inclined towards multiplayer games, I’d likely rate it higher on this list. Known for its strategic complexity, unique factions, and heart-pounding battles, Starcraft stands as an enduring symbol of excellence in the real-time strategy genre.

Starcraft 2 has left an immense footprint in the gaming world. Its dominance in competitive esports has earned it legendary standing, boasting a legacy that’s admired and difficult to surpass. The game’s three unique factions – Terrans, Zerg, and Protoss – provide players with a richly diverse and well-balanced strategic play, embodying the essence of an enduring classic.

Initially, Blizzard was admired for its exceptional game development skills, with the term “Blizzard polish” symbolizing a standard every developer aimed to achieve. Games like Starcraft 2 were produced during this period, resulting in an intricately designed and flawlessly executed product that was hard to fault. The delicate balance between factions and adherence to refined real-time strategy (RTS) conventions contributed significantly to Starcraft 2’s swift ascent to classic status upon its release in 2010.

Back in 2017, the game switched to a “free-to-play” model, giving everyone access to complete the classic Wings of Liberty campaign. Can’t think of a good reason not to join in now!

2025-05-20 03:44