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

In the early days of computer gaming, real-time strategy (RTS) games formed the core of the experience, and now they’re making a strong comeback with even more titles than before. This article takes you on a journey through the best RTS games for PC in 2025, featuring notable contenders such as the enduring favorite “Age of Empires 2” and the exhilarating combat of the innovative “Company of Heroes,” set during World War 2. We’ll help you find the very best of the genre, with many of these games accessible on the popular gaming platform, Steam. Whether you’re an experienced strategist or new to this genre, our extensive guide keeps you up-to-date on the top RTS games for PC in 2025.

In the arrangement you see, I’ve ranked them based on my current preferences when this article was penned. Keep in mind that this list might evolve over time. Don’t hesitate to voice your opinions or point out any essential Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games that you believe should be included!

20 – Red Alert 2

Many people hold a deep affection for Red Alert 2, and for me, it brought an unprecedented level of joy to my childhood gaming experiences as it was the second real-time strategy (RTS) game I’ve ever played, following Age of Empires II. This timeless RTS masterpiece remains one of the top RTS games to play today, stirring feelings of nostalgia and enduring pleasure, while showcasing some of the finest sprite-based graphics ever created.

Red Alert 2 seamlessly merges an engaging narrative with memorable factions, which are now iconic within the Command & Conquer franchise. The game’s distinctive fusion of strategy and humor results in a captivating experience that remains legendary, earning it the status of a cherished classic that still resonates profoundly with gamers from different generations due to its iconic FMV scenes.

The eye-catching graphics, unique characters that remain iconic, and deep strategic elements of Red Alert 2 keep it a beloved game even today. Its user-friendly design and straightforward mechanics make it suitable for both strategy veterans and beginners in the genre. Whether you were executing brilliant military tactics or using the Chronosphere to wreak havoc, Red Alert 2 consistently offered a blend of visual excitement and humor. Who wouldn’t want to go back in time and save Einstein with this game?

19 – Dawn of War 2

Initially released during Relic’s streak of successes, Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II set itself apart from its predecessor by emphasizing tactical engagements on a smaller scale. Each unit in the game had multiple skills, necessitating careful management (it played more like a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena than traditional RTS games). Abandoning base construction, it instead prioritized the four key elements that made Company of Heroes popular: setting things ablaze, repairing damaged units, outmaneuvering enemies, and delivering the final blow.

Following the disappointment of Dawn of War 3 not 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 timeless classic and widely acclaimed for its innovation and intrigue. As one of today’s best real-time strategy (RTS) games, it delivers an enthralling mix of intense combat, strategic complexity, and total immersion in the rich 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 as you can onto a single map. Launched in 2007, a year following the success of Company of Heroes, Supreme Commander stood in stark contrast. While CoH focused on intricate small-unit tactics and micro-management, Supreme Commander took a step back (both figuratively and literally), allowing for massive armies to wage wars over both long and short distances.

To this very day, its grandeur remains largely unparalleled, making it an iconic choice among fans yearning for epic-sized conflicts.

It’s still one of the best out there when it comes to big fights, and it’s a classic favorite among people who love epic battles.

17 – Bad North: Jotunn Edition

A fascinating idea, skillfully implementing its streamlined real-time strategies by consistently keeping the player in a defensive role and focusing on preventing Viking invasions from burning down buildings across various islands. In an era where strategy games are often seeking ways to simplify, Bad North stands out as one of the few that truly understands how to strike the perfect balance.

If you’re seeking a relaxing yet engaging gaming experience without the need for intense focus, consider giving ‘Bad North’ a try. It’s perfect when you want to keep your mind active and fingers busy, but prefer something less demanding than a heavy-duty strategy game.

16 – Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion

One unique aspect of Sins of a Solar Empire is its blend of 4X (Explore, Expand, Exploit, Exterminate) mechanics with real-time strategy, creating a genre hybrid that continues to attract space enthusiasts even now. Its grand scale, intricate star systems, and the interplay between diplomacy and combat make it stand out as one of the top RTS games from its time.

In addition to being masterfully designed, the game’s stunning graphics and an energetic community of modifiers make it a truly delightful experience. If you fancy exploring the Mass Effect universe or battling it out in Halo, or even venturing into the galaxy of Star Wars, these creative minds have got you covered!

“A sequel to Sins of a Solar Empire is currently being developed on the Epic Games Store, and when it’s finished, it will also be available on Steam.

15 – They Are Billions

Constructing a real-time strategy game based on “turtling” becomes an ideal choice with zombies as a theme. Turtling is a tactic where players construct a large, impregnable fortress complete with robust defenses, then watch as artificial intelligence sends waves of zombies to attack. Inside this stronghold, people live in harmony, enjoying a well-organized, self-sustaining society unaware that beyond the city walls lie only destruction and despair.

In “They Are Billions”, you play the role of a mayor tasked with constructing defensive structures so robust that they can withstand swarms of enemies in the millions, although it’s more like tens of thousands in reality.

The movie “They Are Billion” was a hidden treasure that didn’t receive the acclaim it should have upon its release in 2019, and since then, it has largely slipped from people’s consciousness.

14 – Rome 2: Total War

Rather than outright praising it, I’d say it deserves a nod of recognition for providing some amusement, and Creative Assembly has remarkably transformed Rome II from a nearly unplayable disaster into one of the top-tier Total War games. However, my preference leans towards the original game, especially with the remastered version available, making it an easy choice, as you’ll discover in more detail below.

Nonetheless, Rome II has certain advantages today, thanks to a decade of updates and improvements. Its campaign has significantly progressed from the initial version, boasting improved building sequences and a richer political structure.

The primary issue lies in the quick pace of the battles and the fact that the original Rome offered a more comprehensive battle system. Unlike the current one, which relies heavily on class-based counters, it accounted for factors like unit collision, mass, and experience. It also simulated each factor individually rather than relying on them collectively.

13 – Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition

Every discussion about the Real-Time Strategy (RTS) genre tends to involve Age of Empires II, a game that frequently outshines other titles, even after over twenty years since it first came out.

As a dedicated gaming enthusiast, I can confidently say that Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition has firmly cemented its status since its launch back in 1999, and it remains an unrivaled favorite in 2025. This captivating real-time strategy (RTS) game provides me with the thrill of constructing and managing my very own civilization, all while engaging in epic battles against rival nations. If you haven’t already, dive into this timeless classic to understand why it continues to outshine other RTS games in 2025 by experiencing its exceptional strategic depth firsthand.

This game boasts breathtaking visuals, enhanced artificial intelligence, and fresh content like four additional civilizations and three new storylines. Gameplay is engaging and rewarding, while the multiplayer option ensures endless entertainment. If you’re new to the Middle Ages or simply want to rediscover a classic you may have overlooked, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition could be perfect for you.

12 – Age of Mythology

Originally launched 21 years back by the developers behind Age of Empires, Age of Myethology is a timeless classic. In the same year of its debut, it managed to sell over a million copies. Excitingly, in 2022, we were given news about Age of Mythology: Retold!

Age of Mythology transformed the series by introducing 3D graphics and a captivating world where gods, humans, and mythical creatures share existence. As an 11-year-old kid, I became deeply immersed in its gameplay when I first encountered it. To this day, I can still hum the main theme, every note etched into my memory.

Age of Mythology stood out from Age of Empires due to its exceptional campaign that featured all three pantheons (Greek, Norse, and Egyptian). In this game, you played as Atlantian Admiral and war hero, Arkantos, battling the forces of Gargarensis. Even today, Arkantos remains one of my favorite characters in any Real-Time Strategy (RTS) game.

11 – Starcraft 2

Starcraft 2 is universally known as the ultimate esports Real-Time Strategy (RTS) game ever made. It’s left an unforgettable impression, not just as one of the best RTS games available now, but also as one of the greatest RTS games in history. If I were more into multiplayer gaming, it would undoubtedly rank higher on this list. Known for its strategic complexity, unique factions, and heart-pounding battles, Starcraft stands as the pinnacle of enduring greatness within the real-time strategy genre.

As a gamer, I can’t help but marvel at the lasting influence Starcraft 2 has had on the gaming world. Its triumph in the competitive esports scene has catapulted it into legendary realms, with an unparalleled legacy that leaves many aspiring games stumbling in its wake. The game’s trio of unique factions – Terrans, Zerg, and Protoss – provide a richly varied and well-balanced strategic landscape, a testament to the timeless quality of this gaming gem.

Initially, Blizzard was admired for creating exceptionally polished games, a quality that other developers aspired to achieve. The term “Blizzard polish” represented this level of perfection. Starcraft 2 is a game from an era when Blizzard still upheld this standard, making it so well-constructed that it’s challenging to identify any flaws in its gameplay. Its intricate balance between factions and refined Real-Time Strategy (RTS) mechanics left little room for doubt as to why Starcraft 2 quickly gained 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 initial Wings of Liberty campaign. What’s keeping you from diving in and joining the fun?

2025-05-29 03:48