Top PC RTS Games Of All Time: A Gamer's Guide

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the epic world of real-time strategy (RTS) games? If you're a PC gamer, you already know that the RTS genre offers some of the most immersive, challenging, and rewarding experiences out there. So, let's get straight to the point. I'm going to walk you through some of the best RTS games on PC ever made. Whether you're a seasoned commander or a newbie recruit, there's something here for everyone.

Why RTS Games Still Rock

Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about why RTS games continue to captivate gamers. What makes these games so special? For starters, RTS games offer a unique blend of strategic planning, resource management, and tactical execution. You’re not just running around shooting things (though that can be fun too!). You’re building bases, gathering resources, training units, researching technologies, and commanding armies in real-time. This requires a lot of thinking and quick decision-making. It's like being a general leading your troops in a real war!

Another reason RTS games are awesome is the depth they offer. Many RTS games have complex tech trees, diverse unit types, and intricate economic systems. This means there are countless strategies and tactics you can employ to outwit your opponents. You can be a turtling player, focusing on building a strong defense and slowly expanding your economy. Or you can be an aggressive rusher, launching early attacks to cripple your enemy before they can get established. The possibilities are endless!

And let's not forget the multiplayer aspect. Many RTS games have thriving online communities where you can test your skills against other players from around the world. Whether you’re playing ranked matches or casual skirmishes, the thrill of victory against a human opponent is hard to beat. Plus, multiplayer RTS games often require teamwork and coordination, which can lead to some truly epic moments.

The Titans of RTS: My Top Picks

Alright, now for the main event! Here are some of the best RTS games on PC that you absolutely need to check out. These games have stood the test of time and are still considered classics by many RTS fans.

StarCraft: Brood War

When you talk about RTS, you can't miss StarCraft: Brood War. It’s one of the most iconic RTS games ever made, plain and simple. Released in 1998, this game defined the genre for years to come. With its three distinct races – Terran, Zerg, and Protoss – each with unique units and abilities, Brood War offers incredible strategic depth. Mastering each race requires a deep understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, as well as the ability to adapt to your opponent’s strategies. The single-player campaign is gripping, but the multiplayer is where Brood War truly shines. The game’s competitive scene is legendary, and even today, professional StarCraft players continue to compete in tournaments around the world.

What makes StarCraft: Brood War so enduring? It’s the perfect blend of balance, complexity, and accessibility. The game is easy to pick up but difficult to master, and the skill ceiling is incredibly high. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore competitive gamer, you can always find something to enjoy in Brood War. Plus, the game has a huge modding community, which has created countless custom maps and scenarios to keep things fresh.

One of the most impressive aspects of StarCraft: Brood War is its impact on esports. The game helped to pioneer the concept of professional gaming, and it remains one of the most popular esports titles in the world. The game’s competitive scene is particularly strong in South Korea, where professional StarCraft players are treated like celebrities. Watching professional StarCraft matches is an incredible experience, and it’s a great way to learn new strategies and tactics.

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition

Next up, we have Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition. This is a beautifully remastered version of the classic RTS game that many of us grew up with. With stunning 4K graphics, new civilizations, and improved gameplay, the Definitive Edition is a must-play for any RTS fan. Age of Empires II is all about building a civilization from the ground up, starting in the Dark Ages and advancing through history. You’ll need to gather resources, construct buildings, train units, and research technologies to conquer your enemies.

What sets Age of Empires II apart is its historical setting. The game features a wide range of civilizations from different periods of history, each with unique units, technologies, and bonuses. You can play as the Britons, the Franks, the Mongols, the Vikings, and many more. Learning about the history and culture of these civilizations is part of the fun. The single-player campaigns are also excellent, offering engaging stories and challenging scenarios.

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition also boasts a robust multiplayer mode. You can play against friends or other players online in a variety of game modes, including team matches, deathmatch, and king of the hill. The game’s online community is still very active, and there are always plenty of players looking for a good match. Whether you’re a veteran of the original game or a newcomer to the series, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition.

Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2

Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 is another classic RTS game that deserves a spot on this list. Released in 2000, this game is known for its over-the-top storyline, quirky units, and fast-paced gameplay. In Red Alert 2, the Soviet Union launches a surprise attack on the United States, and you must choose a side and fight for global domination. The game features a diverse cast of characters, including psychic soldiers, Tesla coils, and giant squids.

What makes Red Alert 2 so memorable is its unique sense of humor. The game doesn’t take itself too seriously, and the cutscenes are often hilarious. The units are also incredibly creative, such as the Soviet’s Kirov Airships and the Allied’s Prism Tanks. Red Alert 2 is a blast to play with friends, and the game’s multiplayer mode is still popular today.

One of the things that sets Red Alert 2 apart from other RTS games is its focus on micro-management. The game rewards players who can quickly and efficiently control their units. Mastering the art of micro-management is essential for success in Red Alert 2, and it can be very satisfying to outmaneuver your opponents. Plus, the game has a great soundtrack, with catchy tunes that will get stuck in your head for days.

Company of Heroes

Moving on, Company of Heroes is a World War II RTS game that focuses on tactical combat. Unlike other RTS games that emphasize base building and resource management, Company of Heroes puts you in direct control of your troops on the battlefield. You’ll need to use cover, flanking maneuvers, and special abilities to defeat your enemies. The game features stunning graphics, realistic sound effects, and a gripping single-player campaign.

What makes Company of Heroes so engaging is its attention to detail. The game accurately recreates the look and feel of World War II, from the uniforms and weapons to the environments and buildings. The game also features a dynamic battlefield, with destructible environments and realistic physics. Watching your troops take cover behind a destroyed building or flanking an enemy position is an incredible experience.

Company of Heroes also has a strong multiplayer mode. You can play against friends or other players online in a variety of game modes, including team matches and skirmishes. The game’s online community is still very active, and there are always plenty of players looking for a challenging match. Whether you’re a history buff or a strategy game enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in Company of Heroes.

Total War: Shogun 2

Last but not least, we have Total War: Shogun 2. This is a historical strategy game that combines turn-based empire management with real-time tactical battles. In Shogun 2, you play as one of the clans vying for control of Japan during the Sengoku period. You’ll need to build up your economy, raise armies, and engage in diplomacy to achieve your goals. The game features stunning graphics, realistic historical settings, and a deep strategic layer.

What makes Total War: Shogun 2 so unique is its blend of grand strategy and real-time combat. You’ll spend much of your time managing your empire on the turn-based campaign map, but when armies clash, you’ll be transported to a beautifully rendered battlefield where you’ll command your troops in real-time. The battles are epic in scale, with thousands of soldiers clashing on the field. You’ll need to use your tactical skills to outmaneuver your opponents and achieve victory.

Total War: Shogun 2 also has a fantastic multiplayer mode. You can play against friends or other players online in a variety of game modes, including head-to-head campaigns and historical battles. The game’s online community is very active, and there are always plenty of players looking for a challenging match. Whether you’re a history buff or a strategy game enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in Total War: Shogun 2.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, this list is just the tip of the iceberg. There are many other great RTS games out there that are worth checking out. Here are a few honorable mentions:

• StarCraft II: The sequel to the legendary StarCraft: Brood War.
• Supreme Commander: An RTS game with massive-scale battles.
• Company of Heroes 2: The sequel to Company of Heroes, set on the Eastern Front.
• They Are Billions: A zombie-themed RTS game with a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my picks for the best RTS games on PC of all time. Whether you’re into historical settings, sci-fi worlds, or tactical combat, there’s an RTS game out there for you. So, grab your mouse and keyboard, and get ready to command your armies to victory! Happy gaming, guys!