Real-time strategy (RTS) games have been loved for years. They offer deep planning and ongoing popularity. In 2024, the thrill continues with new RTS strategy games hitting the scene.
These games bring fresh excitement and keep players coming back. If you love making quick decisions and big plans, the best RTS games on PC this year will grab your interest.
Whether you’re new to RTS or a seasoned player, these games have something for everyone.
1. Command & Conquer: Remastered Collection
The Command & Conquer: Remastered Collection brings back the classic feel of strategy games RTS with a fresh look. This game has updated graphics that make everything clearer and more enjoyable to watch.
The controls and menus are easier to use now, which helps both new players and those who remember the original games. Playing this game is like meeting an old friend with a new style.
It gives veteran players a sweet taste of the past while welcoming newcomers who are just starting to explore the world of RTS games. This blend of old and new makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to dive into strategy gaming.
2. Age of Empires IV
Age of Empires IV is one of the best RTS games on PC for anyone who loves history and strategy. This game takes you through different historical periods, where you can lead famous civilizations to greatness.
The graphics are beautiful, making the old worlds feel alive and real. The game is easy to start playing, which is great for new gamers, but it also has deep strategies that longtime fans will appreciate.
Whether you’re building your empire from scratch, managing resources, or leading armies into battle, Age of Empires IV makes you feel like a true leader. It’s a fun way to experience and learn about history while enjoying some smart gameplay.
3. Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak
Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak stands out among the best strategy games RTS due to its unique desert setting and deep strategy. The game takes you on an adventure across vast sands, where every move matters.
You control a fleet of land and air vehicles, navigating through tough terrain and battling enemies. The story of the game is strong and pulls you in from the start. You learn about the planet, Kharak, and its secrets as you play.
Moreover, this game adds something special to the RTS genre with its focus on storytelling and setting, making you feel part of an epic tale. Whether you are a new player or have enjoyed RTS games before, Deserts of Kharak offers a fresh and exciting challenge.
4. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is one of the best RTS games on PC, breathing new life into a beloved classic. This version introduces new civilizations and campaigns, adding fresh content for both new players and long-time fans.
The game’s appeal lies in its strategic depth. Each civilization comes with unique strengths and challenges, requiring you to think and adapt your strategy.
Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or just starting, this game offers a rich and rewarding experience. It’s a fantastic blend of learning history and sharp tactical play, making it a standout in strategy games RTS.
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition brings people of all ages together, proving that great strategy gaming is timeless.
5. Northgard
Northgard is one of the best RTS games on PC that mixes Norse mythology with traditional RTS gameplay. This game lets you control a Viking clan, each with its own special abilities and gods to worship.
The unique clan system lets you choose different paths to victory, such as warfare, trade, or worship. Survival is key in Northgard. You must manage your resources carefully through harsh winters and fend off enemies and mythical creatures.
This element of survival adds a thrilling challenge to the game. Northgard stands out in new RTS strategy games by combining engaging storytelling, strategic depth, and a tough environment that tests your leadership and adaptability.
Whether you’re battling giants or building a new settlement, Northgard offers a fresh adventure in the strategy games RTS genre.
6. StarCraft II
StarCraft II stands out in RTS space strategy games and is known for its quick action and balanced gameplay. It is a favorite in competitive gaming, attracting players who enjoy fast, intense matches.
Additionally, StarCraft II features three unique races: the Terrans, Protoss, and Zerg, each with their own style. The Terrans are versatile and resilient, the Protoss have powerful but expensive units, and the Zerg can quickly swarm enemies.
This variety lets players choose a race that matches their preferred way to play. Whether you like fast attacks or strong defenses, there’s a strategy for everyone.
Additionally, StarCraft II’s fast-paced matches and deep strategy keep gamers coming back for more, making it a classic in competitive gaming.
7. Stellaris
Stellaris is one of the best RTS games on PC, especially for fans of space exploration and complex strategy. This game lets you explore a vast galaxy full of mysteries and opportunities.
You can discover new planets, encounter alien species, and decide whether to make friends or foes. Diplomacy is key in Stellaris. Also, you need to manage relationships with different empires, which can help you or cause trouble depending on how you handle them.
Managing your empire is also a big part of the game. You control everything from building space stations to researching new technologies.
Stellaris combines these elements to create a deep and engaging RTS space strategy game that keeps players involved for hours as they craft their own stories among the stars.
8. Dune: Spice Wars
Dune: Spice Wars is a fresh take on strategy games RTS, set in the famous Dune universe. This game puts you in charge of managing resources and making political moves to control the desert planet of Arrakis.
The key resource is spice, and controlling its flow is crucial. You’ll need to plan carefully to manage your spice production, use it to fund your operations, and keep your people happy.
The game also involves a lot of political maneuvering. You can form alliances, engage in trade, or even wage war to expand your influence.
These elements make Dune: Spice Wars a complex RTS space strategy game that challenges your ability to think ahead and strategize on multiple levels, ensuring every decision counts.
9. Homeworld 3 – Upcoming
Homeworld 3 is one of the most anticipated new RTS strategy games, set to launch on May 13, 2024. This game is the next chapter in a well-loved series known for its innovative approach to RTS space strategy games.
Homeworld 3 promises to enhance the 3D strategic gameplay that fans love, taking battles into vast, dynamic space environments where positioning and tactics are key.
Players can expect new levels of strategic depth, with improvements that make managing fleets and engaging in combat more immersive than ever.
The game’s developers are also introducing fresh features that will surprise both new players and longtime fans, ensuring that Homeworld 3 will be a significant advancement in the genre.
10. Total War: Warhammer III
Total War: Warhammer III is a standout game that combines grand strategy with real-time tactical battles. This strategy game brings a magical fantasy world to life, where you can lead one of many unique factions.
Each faction has its own strengths, warriors, and magical abilities, giving you many ways to play and win. The game’s big battles happen in real-time, where your choices and strategy quickly affect the outcome.
You also plan your moves on a giant map, deciding where to expand your empire or whom to fight next.
With its rich setting and variety of characters, Total War: Warhammer III is perfect for players looking for new RTS strategy games that offer deep and engaging gameplay.
How to Choose an RTS Game
Choosing the right RTS game can make all the difference in your gaming experience. Start by considering the complexity of the game.
Some strategy games RTS are simple and easy to get into, which is great for beginners. Others have many layers of strategy and depth, perfect for those who love a challenge.
Think about the pacing of the game, too. Do you prefer something fast-paced, where quick decisions are crucial, or do you enjoy a slower game, where you have more time to think about your strategy?
The theme of the game is also important. RTS games can transport you to outer space, historical battles, or mythical worlds. Pick a game with a theme that excites you, as you’ll be spending many hours immersed in that setting.
Lastly, consider looking for new RTS strategy games or ones that get regular updates. These games will evolve and grow over time, providing a continually fresh experience.
By taking these factors into account, you can find an RTS game that fits your interests and playing style, ensuring many enjoyable gaming sessions.
Wrapping Up: The Best RTS Games on PC 2024
RTS games have stood the test of time, evolving with new technologies and expanding in popularity. The best RTS games on PC for 2024 offer a mix of classic tactics and fresh challenges.
Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or new to the genre, there’s a depth of gameplay waiting for you. Go into different worlds, master complex strategies, and enjoy the joy of command.
Explore the diverse lineup of RTS games this year and discover your next favorite game. There’s never been a better time to see what RTS games have to offer.
