What are RTS Games?

Imagine a game of chess where both players can move their pieces simultaneously. While it sounds chaotic on the chessboard, that is the concept behind Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games, in a nutshell. In RTS games, multiple players make strategic moves simultaneously as they try to outdo each other.

RTS games have been around since 1992 when Westwood Studios launched Dune II. While enthusiasm for the genre seemed to have waned in the 2000s and 2010s, they are making a big comeback in the 2020s. Here is a comprehensive review of RTS games, including a more detailed definition and overview of the best games in the genre.

What are RTS Games?

RTS games enable players to act and move simultaneously in real-time as their AI-powered or human opponents or partners. Objectives vary from game to game, and the most common ones include economic, political, and military dominance. Strategy is a core aspect of the games as players try different techniques to gain an advantage over their opponents.

While the RTS genre is technically broad, RTS games are characterized by several common aspects. First, players’ moves and actions must be in real-time. Second, they must be strategic, as players usually have similar or equally matched resources and opportunities to achieve similar or opposite objectives. Third, they must be competitive, requiring you to compete against other players or AI-powered opponents.

Gameplay

RTS games’ gameplay style vary from one game to another. However, strategy is at the core aspect of every gameplay, and the idea is to make the most of your resources and opportunities.

Most RTS games feature units of people, creatures, or robots that you can control to do your bidding. For example, you can use them to gather resources, construct buildings, fight in battles, and do more. Notably, most games usually limit units, requiring you to use them strategically.

Most games also feature materials and resources that you can use to build what you need. For example, you can use crops for food and bricks for buildings. Moreover, most games usually feature an economic or financial system tied to the resources. The idea is to generate money and use it to acquire the resources you don’t have.

Many RTS games also enable you to use research and technology to increase the value and quality of your resources. For example, you can use technology to make better weapons and vehicles, giving you an advantage over your opponents.

Exploration and adventuring are common aspects of most RTS gameplay styles. You must explore your surroundings while looking for resources, shelter, and other things you may need. For example, Stellaris requires players to explore diverse planets for resources and other civilizations.

Finally, many RTS games involve action as players fight for resources and dominance. Fights can involve military units, small teams, or individuals. Interestingly, some games also offer diplomacy as an alternative to violence.

Best RTS Games

Most RTS games are timeless. There are dozens, and new ones continue to emerge, leaving players spoilt for choice. Here is an overview of five of the best RTS games:

5. Stellaris

Your goal in Stellaris is to build a space empire by conquering and exploring planets for resources. The planets contain minerals you can use to build diverse things, such as buildings and equipment. You go on your quest with a team of professionals in various fields. Your units include scientists who handle research and development. You also have fighters to deploy against any hostile civilizations you encounter. The fights can get intense, and you can design your custom-built warships.

4. Crusader Kings III

Crusader Kings III takes you back to the Middle Ages and gives you plenty of opportunities to build a legendary dynasty. You can acquire power, wealth, and nobility in various ways. For example, you can form strategic pacts with your allies through weddings or conquer your enemies through war.

The game is incredibly detailed and features diverse classes of characters, including leaders, peasants, spies, soldiers, and more. Every character has a unique personality, and the story continues evolving according to your decisions. Moreover, the story doesn’t end when the characters die, as it spans entire bloodlines.

3. Company of Heroes 3

Winning wars takes a sound strategy; you need one to win the two WWII campaigns in Company of Heroes 3. The gameplay is tactical and strategic, requiring a combination of brains and brawns to conquer your enemies. For example, you can flank your enemies to expose their openings before attacking. You have diverse units and factions to work with and dominate all frontiers, including the land, sea, and air. Interestingly, you can partner with up to four friends in the multiplayer mode. The game looks cinematic thanks to its sharp graphics and realistic gameplay mechanics.

2. Halo Wars 2

Halo Wars 2 immerses you in the expansive universe with real-time strategy gameplay, allowing you to command various iconic Halo armies as they battle for supremacy. As a player, you take control of different factions, each with its unique units and strategic advantages, ranging from standard Marines to the legendary Spartans. The game offers a deep and dynamic combat experience, where you must manage resources, deploy troops, and adapt to enemy tactics.

The diverse enemy types you'll encounter are not just cannon fodder; each comes with its abilities and weaknesses, requiring you to think strategically and adjust your approach in real time. Whether you're facing off against the relentless Banished or other formidable foes, understanding their strengths and vulnerabilities is key to securing victory.

1. Shadow Tactics: Blade of the Shogun

Shadow Tactics: Blade of the Shogun is an action-packed RTS game that gives you control of five warriors with varying skills. You can play any character and adapt to their unique playstyles to achieve your objectives. For example, you can use Hayato’s sword skills to cut down your enemies or trap them using Yuki’s ingenious traps. The missions are pretty challenging. Fortunately, you have dozens of ways to take out your opponents, enabling you to put your strategy skills to the test.

So, what’s your take on our overview of what RTS games are and the five best RTS games? Let us know over our socials here or in the comments below.