Summary: Discover the best RTS games of all time and learn how to elevate your gameplay with modern tools and upcoming titles like Tempest Rising.

Real-time strategy (RTS) games have captivated players for decades with their fast-paced tactics, resource management, and intense battles.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the genre, 2025 is a great time to explore the best RTS titles ever released.

In this guide, we’ve ranked the 30 greatest RTS games of all time—classic and modern—based on gameplay, innovation, and lasting impact.

Plus, for players looking to enhance their gameplay experience, tools like Xmod can be incredibly useful—offering access to custom mods, trainers, and tweaks that can streamline resource management or unlock hidden features, giving both casual and competitive players new ways to enjoy their favorite RTS titles.

Table of contents

1. 30 Best RTS Games Of All Time
2. How to Enhance the Gaming Experience for RTS Games
3. Conclusion

30 Best RTS Games Of All Time

Here are the 30 best real time strategy games of all time, check them out.

1.Sins of a Solar Empire 2

Title	Sins of a Solar Empire 2
Genre	4X, Strategy
Theme	War, Space War
Platform	PC
Developer	Stardock Entertainment
Publisher	Stardock Entertainment
Engine	Iron Engine 3
Franchise	Sins of a Solar Empire
Release Date	August 15, 2024
Multiplayer Modes	Local Co-Op, Local Multiplayer, Online Co-Op, Online Multiplayer
Top Critic Avg	80/100
Critics Recommend	75%
OpenCritic Rating	Strong
Review Source	Powered by TheGamer

Sins of a Solar Empire 2 brings strategic space warfare to life with real-time battles and deep 4X gameplay. Take control of a galactic empire and dominate the stars through tactical combat, planetary expansion, and unit customization. From nimble scouts to massive titans, each ship plays a unique role in your conquest. With full multiplayer support and impressive visuals powered by Iron Engine 3, the game delivers both scale and detail. It stands out in the crowded RTS genre for its depth and polish, earning a strong critical reception upon release. Perfect for fans of sci-fi strategy and interstellar conquest.

2.Frostpunk 2

Title	Frostpunk 2
Genre	Strategy, Survival, City Builder
Theme	Post-Apocalyptic, Harsh Climate
Platform	PC
Developer	11 Bit Studios
Publisher	11 Bit Studios
Engine	Unreal Engine 5
Franchise	Frostpunk
Release Date	September 20, 2024
ESRB	M (Blood, Drug Reference, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Violence)
Top Critic Avg	85/100
Critics Recommend	96%
OpenCritic Rating	Mighty
TheGamer Rating	4.5 / 5
Review Source	Powered by TheGamer

Frostpunk 2 challenges players to lead a struggling society in a frozen wasteland where survival depends on tough moral decisions. Set around a life-sustaining geothermic vent, it’s more than just city-building—every choice has social, political, and ethical consequences. You’ll juggle scarce resources, rising demands, and human desperation, all while fending off the relentless cold. Built in Unreal Engine 5, the sequel deepens the strategic and emotional weight of the original. With impressive critic scores and gritty narrative design, Frostpunk 2 is a must-play for fans of survival sims who enjoy thinking under pressure.

3.Hearts of Iron 4

Title	Hearts of Iron 4
Genre	Grand Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Paradox Development Studio
Publisher	Paradox Interactive
Engine	Clausewitz Engine
Multiplayer	Online Co-Op, 1-32 Players
Release Date	June 6, 2016
ESRB	Everyone 10+
Top Critic Avg	83/100
Critics Recommend	81%
OpenCritic Rating	Strong
TheGamer Rating	N/A

In Hearts of Iron 4, you take control of any nation during World War II, balancing economics, politics, and military might. The game is a real-time grand strategy where historical events play out—or you can diverge and rewrite history. With detailed management and diplomacy, you must lead your country through the war. The game’s complex mechanics can be daunting, but it rewards patience and skillful planning. With high critic praise, it’s a standout title for strategy enthusiasts who enjoy a deep, tactical experience.

4.Battle for Middle-Earth 2

Title	Battle for Middle-Earth 2
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	EA Los Angeles
Publisher	Electronic Arts
Release Date	March 2, 2006
ESRB	Teen // Fantasy Violence
Top Critic Avg	N/A
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Battle for Middle-Earth 2 immerses you in the iconic Lord of the Rings universe, where you can control powerful armies, from Elves to Orcs, and wage epic battles. The game offers both a compelling single-player experience and strategic multiplayer modes. As a fan of the books and movies, this RTS game lets you play famous characters and factions in a detailed, tactical setting. The use of terrain, hero units, and base-building creates dynamic battlefields where your strategic prowess will determine the fate of Middle-Earth.

5.Dune: Spice Wars

Title	Dune: Spice Wars
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC, Xbox Series X/S
Developer	Shiro Games
Publisher	Funcom, Shiro Games
Engine	HashLink
Multiplayer	Online Multiplayer
Release Date	September 14, 2023
ESRB	Teen // Fantasy Violence, Drug Reference
Top Critic Avg	77/100
Critics Recommend	67%
OpenCritic Rating	Strong
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Dune: Spice Wars is a deep RTS where players rule over powerful houses vying for control of the spice-rich planet Arrakis. Build your economy, military, and alliances while navigating a complex political landscape. The game’s layered mechanics offer many strategies for dominance, but beware—the desert is treacherous. Whether you lead House Atreides or the infamous Harkonnens, the power struggles between these factions create a captivating experience. While challenging for newcomers due to its lore, the game rewards players with a rewarding sense of control over the vast desert world.

6.Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War

Title	Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	Microsoft Windows
Developer	Relic Entertainment
Publisher	Relic Entertainment
Release Date	September 20, 2004
ESRB	M // Violence, Blood, Gore
Top Critic Avg	N/A
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Set in the brutal Warhammer 40,000 universe, Dawn of War brings the never-ending conflicts of the galaxy to your screen. Choose from a variety of armies, including Space Marines and Orks, and engage in fast-paced, tactical RTS battles. The game stands out for its strategic depth and high-energy combat, where every decision matters. Despite its age, Dawn of War remains one of the best RTS experiences, with intense battles and deep lore offering endless replayability for fans of the franchise and RTS lovers alike.

7.Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos

Title	Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC, macOS
Developer	Blizzard
Publisher	Blizzard
Engine	Siege Engine
Release Date	July 3, 2002
ESRB	E (Fantasy Violence)
Top Critic Avg	92/100
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos revolutionized the RTS genre with its deep narrative and expansive world-building. Set in the fantastical world of Azeroth, the game features distinct factions like Humans, Orcs, and Night Elves, each with unique units and abilities. This installment is known for its rich lore, which set the stage for the World of Warcraft MMO. With engaging single-player campaigns and a multiplayer mode, Warcraft III remains a must-play for anyone interested in RTS games with a touch of fantasy.

8.Sid Meier’s Gettysburg

Title	Sid Meier’s Gettysburg
Genre	Strategy, Tactical
Platform	PC
Developer	Firaxis Games
Publisher	MicroProse
Release Date	October 1997
ESRB	N/A
Top Critic Avg	N/A
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

In Sid Meier’s Gettysburg, you experience the pivotal Civil War battle, managing troops across different terrains. With a focus on tactics, the game challenges you to outsmart your opponent, control key locations, and effectively use your resources. It’s a historical simulation that stands out for its realistic portrayal of the battle, where unit management and strategic positioning are paramount. This game appeals to both history enthusiasts and strategy lovers, offering an immersive and thoughtful look at one of the most important conflicts in American history.

9.They Are Billions

Title	They Are Billions
Genre	Real-Time Strategy, Survival, Management
Platform	PC, PS4, Xbox One
Developer	Numantian Games
Publisher	BlitWorks
Engine	Proprietary Engine
Release Date	June 18, 2019
ESRB	T // Fantasy Violence, Blood
Top Critic Avg	75/100
Critics Recommend	49%
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

They Are Billions combines classic RTS mechanics with survival horror. You’ll need to build and defend a colony from waves of relentless zombie hordes. The game features a unique blend of real-time strategy and base-building as you balance limited resources with the constant threat of invasion. The futuristic zombie-apocalypse setting offers fresh takes on RTS gameplay, while its intense difficulty keeps players on edge. For fans of both survival games and real-time strategy, They Are Billions offers a challenging and thrilling experience.

10.Rome: Total War

Title	Rome: Total War
Genre	Strategy, Tactical
Platform	PC, Android, iOS
Developer	Creative Assembly
Publisher	Activision, Sega, Feral Interactive
Release Date	September 22, 2004
ESRB	Teen // Violence
Top Critic Avg	92/100
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Set during the Roman Empire’s rise, Rome: Total War combines grand strategy with tactical battlefield management. You’ll lead one of several factions, from the Roman legions to the Gauls, navigating politics, diplomacy, and warfare. The game’s blend of real-time battles and turn-based strategy offers players a deep and rewarding experience. With a richly detailed world and historical accuracy, Rome: Total War remains a classic in the Total War series and a top choice for history buffs and strategy enthusiasts alike.

11.StarCraft 2

Title	StarCraft 2
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC, macOS
Developer	Blizzard
Publisher	Blizzard
Engine	Havok
Release Date	July 27, 2010
ESRB	T for Teen: Violence, Blood, Gore
Top Critic Avg	N/A
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

StarCraft 2 is the continuation of the beloved sci-fi RTS franchise, expanding on the universe with complex storylines and deep strategic gameplay. Players command three unique factions: Terran, Zerg, and Protoss, each with its own playstyle. The game’s fast-paced combat, coupled with a captivating single-player campaign and competitive multiplayer, solidifies StarCraft 2 as one of the most iconic RTS games. If you love science fiction and strategic warfare, this game is a must-have for your collection.

12.Crusader Kings 3

Title	Crusader Kings 3
Genre	RPG, Grand Strategy
Platform	PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC
Developer	Paradox Interactive
Publisher	Paradox Interactive
Engine	Clausewitz Engine
Release Date	September 1, 2020
ESRB	T for Teen: Drug Reference, Language, Mild Violence, Suggestive Themes
Top Critic Avg	90/100
Critics Recommend	99%
OpenCritic Rating	Mighty
TheGamer Rating	5.0 / 5

Sure, medieval strategy isn’t exactly anything new. But few have taken it to the extreme that the Crusader Kings series has—and it all culminates with Crusader Kings 3. If you want to make a royal (or maybe not so royal) family in the Middle Ages, this is a must-play.

Combat, resource management, and planning a dynasty are constantly on your plate. It can be overwhelming at first, but even as you learn the ropes, it never stops being entertaining. Whether you’re forging alliances through marriage or assassinating rivals to clear your bloodline’s path to the throne, it’s all in a day’s work.

13.Supreme Commander Series

Title	Supreme Commander Series
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC, Xbox 360
Developer	Gas Powered Games, Hellbent Games
Publisher	THQ
Engine	Lua 5.0
Release Date	February 20, 2007
ESRB	E for Everyone
Top Critic Avg	N/A
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

A war that has lasted centuries, futuristic units, and easy-to-access combat are all hallmarks of the Supreme Commander series. These games are wildly accessible despite your skill level, yet still present a tactical challenge. Massive scale battles, diverse units, and seamless strategy systems make it perfect for RTS lovers. Do you have what it takes to become the titular Supreme Commander?

14.Age of Empires 4

Title	Age of Empires 4
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S
Developer	Relic Entertainment, World’s Edge
Publisher	Xbox Game Studios
Engine	Essence Engine 5.0
Release Date	October 28, 2021
ESRB	T for Teen: Mild Blood, Mild Violence
Top Critic Avg	83/100
Critics Recommend	82%
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Build a civilization from the ground up in this return to classic RTS form. Age of Empires 4 brings more factions, deeper mechanics, and the grandeur of historical warfare. It’s the evolution of a legendary franchise that rewards smart strategies and historical curiosity alike. Though it may be complex for new players, it remains a landmark in the genre.

15.Company of Heroes 3

Title	Company of Heroes 3
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Relic Entertainment
Publisher	Sega
Engine	Essence Engine 5.0
Release Date	February 23, 2023
ESRB	M for Mature
Top Critic Avg	78/100
Critics Recommend	76%
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

The Mediterranean theater takes the spotlight in Company of Heroes 3, bringing intense World War II strategy with fresh perspectives. With refined controls and expanded unit rosters, you’ll command land, sea, and air forces like never before. Tough AI and multiple paths to victory make this a tactical gem for both history buffs and hardcore RTS fans.

16.Homeworld Remastered Collection

Title	Homeworld Remastered Collection
Genre	Strategy, Simulation
Platform	Windows, Android, iOS
Developer	Blackbird Interactive, Beenox
Publisher	Rockstar Games
Engine	Unreal Engine 4
Release Date	September 28, 1999 (Remastered Collection Date Varies)
ESRB	T for Teen
Top Critic Avg	N/A
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Homeworld took RTS into space with its breathtaking 3D battles, and the Remastered Collection updates the visuals while preserving the magic. As a space fleet commander, you manage ships, resources, and survival across galaxies. It’s a beautiful, haunting, and strategically deep journey through the stars.

17.Rise of Nations: Extended Edition

Title	Rise of Nations: Extended Edition
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Big Huge Games, SkyBox Labs
Publisher	Microsoft Studios
Engine	Hybrid 2D/3D Engine
Release Date	June 12, 2014
ESRB	T for Teen: Blood, Gore, Violence
Top Critic Avg	N/A
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Rise of Nations: Extended Edition allows players to take control of 18 unique civilizations, from ancient times all the way to the modern era. The game offers a refined RTS experience, allowing you to build up a civilization and dominate on a global scale. The addition of various unique nation bonuses keeps the gameplay fresh and dynamic, ensuring that no two playthroughs are ever the same. With a focus on both warfare and diplomacy, you’ll need to balance economic growth, territorial expansion, and strategic military action to lead your nation to global supremacy. The extended edition enhances the visuals and includes all the previously released DLC, making it a complete package for fans of historical strategy games.

18.Steel Division 2

Title	Steel Division 2
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Eugen Systems
Publisher	Eugen Systems
Engine	IRISZOOM V5
Release Date	June 20, 2019
ESRB	M for Mature
Top Critic Avg	69/100
Critics Recommend	57%
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Steel Division 2 is a high-stakes, WW2-based RTS that puts you in command of large-scale, strategic battles with realistic unit movements and complex tactical decisions. With over 600 units to choose from, including infantry, tanks, and aircraft, every battle is an exercise in precision and strategy. The game features an in-depth campaign set in the Eastern Front of WWII, offering players both tactical combat and operational planning. What truly sets Steel Division 2 apart is its detailed, historical accuracy and the immense scale of the battles you will command. If you are a fan of military history or deeply tactical gameplay, Steel Division 2 delivers an experience that is both challenging and rewarding.

19.Stellaris

Title	Stellaris
Genre	4X Grand Strategy
Platform	PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Developer	Paradox Development Studio
Publisher	Paradox Interactive
Engine	Clausewitz Engine
Release Date	May 9, 2016
ESRB	E10+ for Everyone (10+) – Violent References, Mild Language
Top Critic Avg	81/100
Critics Recommend	77%
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

In Stellaris, you can command an entire civilization on a galactic scale, exploring, conquering, and expanding through an ever-evolving universe. As the leader of a space-faring empire, you’ll need to manage diplomacy, military tactics, and resource management while exploring uncharted territories in deep space. The game offers a truly expansive experience, where each playthrough offers unique challenges due to procedurally generated galaxies. Stellaris is incredibly deep, with a variety of customization options for your empire’s species, government, and even its technologies. The game rewards strategic thinking and careful planning, and while it can be overwhelming for new players, those who invest the time will be rewarded with a truly unique space strategy experience. With strong modding support and expansions, Stellaris remains one of the most compelling grand strategy games available.

20.Halo Wars

Title	Halo Wars
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Developer	Ensemble Studios, Robot Entertainment
Publisher	Microsoft Game Studios
Engine	Phoenix Engine
Release Date	March 3, 2009
ESRB	T for Teen: Mild Blood, Mild Language, Violence
Top Critic Avg	82/100
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Halo Wars offers a refreshing take on the classic Halo universe by bringing real-time strategy gameplay to the console, which was previously dominated by first-person shooters. Developed by Ensemble Studios, the game allows you to control both human and Covenant forces in a variety of battle scenarios, from large-scale confrontations to more tactical, smaller skirmishes. The mechanics are designed to be accessible to newcomers while still providing enough depth for more experienced players. The game’s story fits neatly into the Halo lore, allowing you to explore a different aspect of the universe. With its strong narrative, solid tactical gameplay, and deep integration with the Halo franchise, Halo Wars offers a unique strategy experience for both Halo fans and RTS enthusiasts alike.

21.Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3

Title	Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC, PS3, Xbox 360
Developer	EA Los Angeles
Publisher	Electronic Arts
Engine	SAGE 2.0
Release Date	October 28, 2008
ESRB	T for Teen
Top Critic Avg	N/A
Critics Recommend	N/A
OpenCritic Rating	N/A
TheGamer Rating	N/A

Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 blends alternate history and science fiction, bringing time travel and sci-fi elements into its strategic gameplay. Set in a world where the Soviet Union has altered the timeline, this entry in the Red Alert series allows players to engage in large-scale, strategic battles with a variety of different units and futuristic technology. It introduces the ability to control naval units for the first time in the series, adding a new layer of strategy to the gameplay. The game’s campaign features a mix of humor, over-the-top action, and dramatic storytelling, keeping players engaged from start to finish. While the game’s graphics may feel dated by today’s standards, Red Alert 3 remains a fun and nostalgic RTS experience with a compelling story and innovative mechanics.

22.Empires: Dawn of the Modern World

Title	Empires: Dawn of the Modern World
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Stainless Steel Studios
Publisher	Sierra Entertainment
Engine	Earthworm Engine
Release Date	October 21, 2003
ESRB	T for Teen
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	8.5/10 (Generally Favorable)

Empires: Dawn of the Modern World takes players through history from the medieval era to the modern day, giving you control over iconic civilizations. The game allows players to lead nations across a wide array of historical campaigns, building and managing resources, expanding territories, and engaging in real-time combat. The title stands out for offering a mix of traditional RTS mechanics and more modern military strategies, allowing players to command a diverse array of armies, ranging from ancient knights to World War II-era tanks and artillery. The game emphasizes historical accuracy, offering units and civilizations based on real-world entities. Despite some technical shortcomings, Empires: Dawn of the Modern World is praised for its compelling single-player campaigns and multiplayer modes. The balance of deep strategy and action-packed gameplay makes it a great choice for fans of historical RTS games.

23.Company of Heroes 2: Ardennes Assault

Title	Company of Heroes 2: Ardennes Assault
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Relic Entertainment
Publisher	Sega
Engine	Essence Engine 3.0
Release Date	November 17, 2014
ESRB	M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Violence, Strong Language
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	6.4/10 (Mixed or Average)

Company of Heroes 2: Ardennes Assault is a standalone expansion set during the harsh winter battle in the Ardennes in WWII. Players command elite U.S. squads, managing limited resources and using strategic positioning and squad tactics to overcome German forces. The game introduces a customizable “Commander” system with unique abilities, enhancing replayability. Praised for its historical accuracy and tactical depth, it also received criticism for difficulty spikes. It’s a rewarding but challenging experience for RTS and WWII strategy fans.

24.Toy Soldiers

Title	Toy Soldiers
Genre	Tower Defense, Strategy
Platform	Xbox 360, PC
Developer	Signal Studios
Publisher	Microsoft Game Studios
Engine	Unreal Engine 3
Release Date	March 3, 2010
ESRB	E for Everyone: Mild Violence
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	8.4/10 (Generally Favorable)

Toy Soldiers blends tower defense and real-time strategy, letting players command miniature WWI-themed troops and vehicles in dynamic, toy-like battlefields. With a mix of strategic planning and direct unit control, it offers accessible yet engaging gameplay. Its charming visuals and creative mechanics earned praise, though some criticized difficulty spikes and limited campaign depth. Still, it’s a fun, unique experience for strategy fans.

25.Napoleon: Total War

Title	Napoleon: Total War
Genre	Real-Time Strategy, Turn-Based Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Creative Assembly
Publisher	SEGA
Engine	Warscape Engine
Release Date	February 23, 2010
ESRB	T for Teen: Violence, Blood
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	7.9/10 (Generally Favorable)

Napoleon: Total War takes players into the heart of the Napoleonic Wars, blending real-time battles with turn-based empire management. As Napoleon Bonaparte, players lead iconic campaigns, engage in large-scale warfare, and navigate diplomacy. The game is praised for its historical detail, refined combat, and strategic depth, though the AI has some shortcomings. A must-play for strategy fans and history enthusiasts alike.

26.Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders

Title	Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders
Genre	Action-RTS, Hack and Slash
Platform	Xbox
Developer	Phantagram
Publisher	Microsoft Game Studios
Engine	Custom Engine
Release Date	October 12, 2004
ESRB	M for Mature: Blood, Violence, Sexual Content
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	8.0/10 (Generally Favorable)

Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders is a hybrid action-RTS game set during the medieval Crusades, combining large-scale tactical battles with hack-and-slash combat. Players lead armies and fight directly on the battlefield, while RPG elements like character progression and loot add depth. Though some AI and graphics issues were noted, the game was praised for its unique genre blend and remains a standout title in the action-strategy genre.

27.Stronghold

Title	Stronghold
Genre	Real-Time Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Firefly Studios
Publisher	Take 2 Interactive
Engine	Custom Engine
Release Date	October 21, 2001
ESRB	T for Teen: Violence, Blood
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	8.8/10 (Generally Favorable)

Stronghold is a real-time strategy game that combines city-building and resource management with intense military combat. Set in medieval times, the game allows players to design and manage a kingdom while defending it from enemy invasions. Players must balance economic growth, infrastructure building, and military preparation to ensure the survival and prosperity of their realm. One of the unique features of Stronghold is its focus on the social and economic aspects of medieval life.

Players must manage food production, taxation, and the happiness of their villagers, all while fending off enemy sieges and creating powerful armies. The game also includes a campaign mode with an engaging story and a free-form mode where players can build their castles without the constraints of the campaign. Stronghold received praise for its deep strategic gameplay and the level of detail in its world-building.

Its charming graphics and immersive atmosphere helped it stand out from other RTS games of the era. The user score of 8.8 reflects how well the game was received by fans, who appreciated the balance of strategy and creativity in castle-building and combat. Despite a few technical issues and a steep learning curve, Stronghold remains a beloved classic in the RTS genre.

28.Victoria II: Heart of Darkness

Title	Victoria II: Heart of Darkness
Genre	Grand Strategy
Platform	PC
Developer	Paradox Development Studio
Publisher	Paradox Interactive
Engine	Clausewitz Engine
Release Date	April 16, 2013
ESRB	T for Teen: Violence, Blood, Mild Language
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	8.7/10 (Generally Favorable)

Victoria II: Heart of Darkness is an expansion for the grand strategy game Victoria II, focusing on 19th–20th century imperialism. It introduces the Scramble for Africa, new technologies, and deeper colonial mechanics, enhancing diplomacy, military, and economic systems. Players manage internal politics while expanding global influence. Praised for adding depth and complexity, it’s a must-play for fans of historical strategy. The expansion holds a strong user score of 8.7.

29.Stranded: Alien Dawn

Title	Stranded: Alien Dawn
Genre	Simulation, Strategy
Platform	PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
Developer	Haemimont Games
Publisher	Frontier Foundry
Engine	Proprietary
Release Date	April 25, 2023
ESRB	T for Teen: Violence, Mild Language
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	7.7/10 (Generally Favorable)

Stranded: Alien Dawn is a survival strategy game where players manage crash-landed survivors on a hostile alien planet. Balancing food, shelter, and mental health, players build a colony, explore the environment, and defend against alien threats. With dynamic weather, deep resource systems, and impactful choices, the game offers a challenging, immersive experience. Praised for its depth and replayability, it combines base-building, exploration, and management, though some players find the pacing and difficulty demanding. It holds a solid user score of 7.7.

30.Combat Mission 3: Afrika Korps

Title	Combat Mission 3: Afrika Korps
Genre	Tactical Strategy, Simulation
Platform	PC
Developer	Battlefront.com
Publisher	Battlefront.com
Engine	Proprietary
Release Date	December 3, 2003
ESRB	T for Teen: Mild Violence, Mild Language
Metascore	81/100 (Generally Favorable)
User Score	8.9/10 (Generally Favorable)

Combat Mission 3: Afrika Korps is a tactical WWII strategy game set in North Africa, where players command Axis or Allied forces in realistic, turn-based battles. Known for its historical accuracy, detailed unit modeling, and environmental strategy, the game emphasizes planning and resource management in harsh desert conditions. With strong AI, multiplayer modes, and a user score of 8.9, it offers deep, immersive gameplay—though its complexity may be tough for beginners.

Once you’ve known 30 best RTS games of all time, here’s how to enhance gaming experience for RTS games.

How to Enhance Gaming Experience for RTS Games

Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games have long been a beloved genre for gamers who enjoy tactical depth and real-time combat. While the genre has seen ups and downs over the years, Xmod is a great tool to enhance your single-player experience, especially for upcoming titles like Tempest Rising.

1. Download Xmod: Get the official Xmod app for your platform.

   

2. Search for Your Game: Once installed, search for Tempest Rising or any RTS game you wish to enhance.

   

3. Launch the Game: Open the game directly from Xmod for easy integration.
4. Activate Mods: Customize your gameplay by activating mods, including cheats and trainers, for a more personalized experience.

   

Tempest Rising: A New Hope for RTS Fans

Tempest Rising, set to release on April 17, 2025, has reignited excitement in the RTS community. Drawing heavy inspiration from classics like Command & Conquer, this game promises a dynamic experience with three unique factions, each offering different strategic playstyles.

Tempest Rising Trainers and Mods from Xmod

In Tempest Rising, Xmod provides a range of trainers and mods that enhance your gaming experience. These tools typically include:

• Prerequisites: For example, Fast Construction—enabling quicker building times, ensuring faster progression.

• General Initialization: Accelerates the game’s start-up process, giving you immediate access to features.

• In Deployment: Adds additional gameplay features, such as resource generation or unit boosts, making it easier to achieve victory.

These trainers can also adjust difficulty settings, offering a tailored challenge to suit different playstyles. Keep an eye on the Xmod community for new mods to unlock even more potential in Tempest Rising.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games is as vast and varied as ever, offering players a rich array of experiences from tactical depth to strategic complexity. The 30 best RTS games of all time serve as a testament to the genre’s enduring appeal, each offering unique gameplay mechanics, captivating campaigns, and multiplayer modes that continue to resonate with both veterans and newcomers.

To truly elevate your RTS experience, tools like Xmod and mods for upcoming titles like Tempest Rising can provide a more tailored, dynamic gameplay experience.

Whether you’re seeking cheats to enhance single-player campaigns or mods to spice up multiplayer battles, these tools allow you to customize your RTS journey and enjoy games to their fullest potential.