Real-time strategy (RTS) games are making a powerful comeback in 2025. From futuristic warfare to ancient empires, developers are pushing the genre forward with advanced AI, cross-platform play, and more immersive gameplay than ever. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the thrill of commanding armies in real-time, this year is packed with incredible releases.
In this post, we’ve compiled the Top 10 RTS Games of 2025 You Shouldn’t Miss, covering everything from big-budget launches to indie gems. So, gear up — your strategic mind is about to be challenged!
1. Stormfront Tactics
Platform: PC, Xbox Series X, PS5
Multiplayer: Yes
Stormfront Tactics is one of the most hyped RTS games of 2025. Set in a dystopian future, it blends real-time base building with tactical squad-based control. The game features intense online battles and a gripping single-player campaign that explores political conspiracies and rebellion.
Why it’s a must-play:
Incredible graphics powered by Unreal Engine 5
Deep faction customization
Competitive online ladder system
Keywords: best RTS games 2025, futuristic RTS
2. Age of Empires IV: Rise of Asia (Expansion)
Platform: PC
Multiplayer: Yes
Age of Empires IV continues its dominance with the new Rise of Asia expansion. It brings three new civilizations — Japan, Siam, and Mongolia — each with unique units and cultural mechanics. This update enhances the core gameplay while remaining faithful to the franchise’s roots.
Why it’s a must-play:
New campaign missions and historical battles
Improved AI and mod support
One of the most beloved real-time strategy games ever made
Keywords: Age of Empires IV, RTS classics, strategy games 2025
3. Iron Harvest 2080
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox
Multiplayer: Yes
Iron Harvest 2080 is a bold sequel to the dieselpunk-inspired RTS Iron Harvest. This time, the battlefield extends to space colonies, introducing new tech trees, aerial units, and strategic depth. If you love mech warfare and macro-management, this game is for you.
Why it’s a must-play:
Unique mechs and steampunk vibes
Expanded multiplayer modes
A fusion of RTS and tactical RPG mechanics
Keywords: top RTS games 2025, mech RTS game
4. Command Conquer: Reforged
Platform: PC
Multiplayer: Yes
One of the most anticipated RTS game remakes, Command Conquer: Reforged revives the classic series with modern visuals and quality-of-life upgrades. It retains the fast-paced gameplay fans love while introducing better UI, mod tools, and improved online play.
Why it’s a must-play:
Nostalgia meets modern performance
Reimagined classic campaigns
Huge modding community support
Keywords: best RTS remakes, CC Reforged, real-time strategy games 2025
5. Total War: Mythos II
Platform: PC
Multiplayer: Yes
Total War: Mythos II combines grand-scale empire building with real-time tactical battles. With a focus on Greek, Norse, and Egyptian mythology, the game allows players to summon mythical creatures and wield divine powers in battle.
Why it’s a must-play:
Unique mythological units and deities
Massive real-time battles
Deep political and economic systems
Keywords: Total War RTS, RTS with mythologies, strategy games 2025
6. Greywalkers: War of the Ascended
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox
Multiplayer: No (Single-player focused)
An indie hit of 2025, Greywalkers merges RTS and turn-based elements in a post-apocalyptic world filled with supernatural forces. You control a group of elite warriors defending humanity from extinction. The gameplay offers tactical depth and a strong narrative.
Why it’s a must-play:
Hybrid strategy mechanics
Story-rich gameplay
Indie gem with positive Steam reviews
Keywords: best indie RTS, hybrid strategy games
7. Warfare Earth: Global Command
Platform: PC
Multiplayer: Yes (Massive Online Strategy Mode)
If you’re into global conquest and political strategy, Warfare Earth: Global Command offers a real-time take on worldwide warfare. Think of it as a mix between World in Conflict and DEFCON, with a high-stakes multiplayer mode involving diplomacy, espionage, and nukes.
Why it’s a must-play:
Deep geopolitical strategy
Dynamic alliances and betrayals
Scalable battles from city-level to global
8. Phantom Protocol
Platform: PC
Multiplayer: Yes (2v2 and Co-op Campaign)
Phantom Protocol is a cyberpunk-themed RTS that rewards stealth, hacking, and quick thinking. It focuses more on smaller, elite units rather than massive armies. The story-driven co-op mode is also one of its strongest features.
Why it’s a must-play:
Cyberpunk RTS concept
Tactical stealth mechanics
Strong narrative and multiplayer synergy
9. Ancestors Reign
Platform: PC
Multiplayer: Yes
This historical RTS dives deep into early human civilizations. From the Fertile Crescent to the Indus Valley, Ancestors Reign lets players develop ancient societies, manage resources, and wage tribal wars. It offers a fresh angle to the genre.
Why it’s a must-play:
Historically accurate and educational
Unique technology tree
Stunning visuals of early civilizations
10. Red Horizon
Platform: PC
Multiplayer: Yes (eSports-focused)
Designed with eSports in mind, Red Horizon is a fast-paced competitive RTS that’s gaining major attention in the pro scene. With high APM (actions per minute) mechanics, tight unit control, and no RNG, it’s ideal for serious RTS players.
Why it’s a must-play:
Clean mechanics and high skill ceiling
Twitch integration and replays
Designed for competitive play.
