This is my compilation of top-twenty best RTS games of all times. If you are interested in creating one, I have a detailed tutorial series on creating RTS games, preview is shown above.
StarCraft Series (1998-2010)
Blizzard Entertainment Defined competitive RTS gaming. Both titles feature single-player campaigns and multiplayer. StarCraft revolutionized esports, while StarCraft II modernized the formula.
Age of Empires Series (1997-2023)
Historical RTS spanning ancient to colonial times. Strong multiplayer focus, scenario editors, and rich campaigns. Still actively supported with new content.
Command & Conquer Series (1995-2013)
Pioneering series with distinct universes (Tiberium, Red Alert, Generals). Known for FMV cutscenes, varied factions, and multiplayer.
Stronghold Series (2001-2023)
Medieval castle-building and siege warfare focus. Combines economic management with military strategy. Strong single-player and multiplayer components. Stronghold Crusader particularly celebrated.
Company of Heroes Series (2006-2023)
WW2 tactical combat with physics-based destruction. Emphasizes unit positioning and territory control. Both games feature campaigns and competitive multiplayer.
WarCraft Series (1994-2002)
Fantasy RTS that evolved from simple orcs vs humans to complex four-faction warfare with hero units. Mod support led to DOTA genre.
Total Annihilation (1997)
Pioneered 3D terrain and physics. Continuous resource system influenced many later games.
Supreme Commander Series (2007-2010)
Spiritual successor to Total Annihilation. Massive scale warfare with strategic zoom. Deep multiplayer mechanics.
Homeworld Series (1999-2016)
Revolutionary 3D space RTS. Unique fleet persistence between missions. Beautiful aesthetics and compelling narrative.
Rise of Nations (2003)
Combines RTS with 4X elements spanning all of history. Territory system and multiple victory conditions.
Dawn of War Series (2004-2017)
Warhammer 40K universe. Evolution from traditional RTS to squad-based tactics. Strong multiplayer focus.
Empire Earth Series (2001-2007)
Spans prehistoric to future eras. Massive tech trees and civilization options.
Age of Mythology (2002)
Mythological spin-off with god powers and divine intervention mechanics.
World in Conflict (2007)
Cold War tactical RTS focusing on combined arms warfare without base building.
Anno Series (1998-2023)
City-building RTS hybrid focusing on economy and trade. Complex production chains and multiplayer.
Men of War Series (2009-2023)
Detailed WW2 tactical combat with direct unit control. Extensive vehicle damage modeling.
Cossacks Series (2001-2016)
Large-scale historical battles with thousands of units. Detailed economy system.
Earth Series (Earth 2150-2160)
Sci-fi RTS with 3D terrain deformation and day/night cycle. Customizable units.
Rise of Legends (2006)
Unique setting mixing steampunk, magic and ancient technology. Three distinct factions.
Impossible Creatures (2003)
Innovative RTS where units are created by combining different animals. Unique unit creation system.