Try "Warzone," "Rust," and "Crusader Kings." These offer varied experiences perfect for beginners.
Try "Warzone," "Rust," and "Crusader Kings." These offer varied experiences perfect for beginners.
Hey everyone, I just bought Halo Wars 2 on sale from the MS store and I'm having a great time playing it. I especially like how it blends multi-tasking and strategy elements, so I'm keen to explore more RTS games. What other titles should I check out? While StarCraft 2 is a solid pick, I'm open to recommendations too. Thanks!
This game is my main focus right now – it sits between real-time strategy and turn-based games, priced at just $20. Strongly suggested!
I think the classic Age of Empires II deserves a playthrough, especially now that there's a version that supports current gen resolutions as well as a couple unofficial expansions. It's easily my favorite RTS of all time. If you want something slower that's still RTS, check out Rise of Nations, which was made in collaboration between Ensemble Studios - the guys behind AOE - and the team that makes the Civilization games. These are both classic and old games. A recent released is They Are Billions which is a survival-ish RTS, with similar mechanics but that puts you against incoming waves of zombies (basically). It was praised a lot though I haven't gotten around to playing it.
Absolutely loves Stellaris—it’s a thoughtful RTS with deep storytelling, diplomacy, and strategy. The game runs at a relaxed pace, letting you explore various elements. Plus, it includes a Star Trek reimagining expansion.
There are many options available for RTS games. Classic RTS: For those who prefer straightforward resource handling, base construction, and army development, the Command and Conquer lineup (except C&C 4) works well. You concentrate on managing just one resource. If you favor building structures with moderate management but minimal advanced tech paths or bite-sized objectives, titles like Warcraft, Starcraft, and Company of Heroes come to mind. Other games may share similarities but are hard to name at the moment. The main drawback with Company of Heroes is that base placement remains fixed. The emphasis shifts toward strategic planning. Real Time Tactics: If base building isn’t your priority, consider Warhammer 40000 RTS titles, World in Conflict, and Supreme Commander. Command and Conquer 4 also fits this style. The key distinction between RTS and RTT lies in how strictly you control units—RTT demands precise command, often restricting deployment numbers. If resource gathering exists, it’s usually a “king of the hill” model or generated over time. Real Time 4X (Explore, Expand, Exploit, Exterminate): For an expansive story-driven experience, from establishing bases to mastering complex tech trees, researching, and battling opponents, series like Age of Empire, Rise of Nations, Empire Earth (first), Sins of a Solar Empire, and others suit. Turn-based Management: This blends elements, with all planning in turns but actual combat happening live. The Total War series exemplifies this approach.
As a big fan of Nintendo, I also suggest the Fire Emblem and Pikmin series.
The beginning of the war, the start of conflict, winter's advance, the dawn of battle, the dark crusade. I haven't played Retribution, so I won't comment on it. Don't bother with Soulstorm 2, 2 Chaos Rising, and I also liked Command & Conquer and Generals.