Games Like Age of Empires: 11 Top Real-Time Strategy Games to Conquer Time

1. Stronghold

Immerse yourself in medieval warfare with Stronghold, a real-time strategy game that challenges you to build, defend, and conquer castles. With a focus on siege warfare, you must construct sturdy fortifications, amass an army, and lead them into battle against enemy strongholds.

2. StarCraft II

Prepare for intergalactic warfare in StarCraft II, a beloved real-time strategy game that has captivated gamers for years. Command one of three distinct races – the Terrans, Protoss, or Zerg – and engage in epic battles across the Koprulu Sector.

3. Total War: Medieval II

Witness the rise and fall of medieval empires in Total War: Medieval II. As one of several legendary factions, you must conquer new territories, build powerful armies, and engage in intricate diplomacy to dominate Europe. The game offers a blend of turn-based strategy and real-time battles.

4. Company of Heroes 2

Experience the brutality of World War II on the Eastern Front in Company of Heroes 2. Lead the Soviet Army or the Wehrmacht in intense real-time battles, using cover, flanking maneuvers, and specialized units to outsmart your opponents.

5. Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2

Step into the alternate reality of Red Alert 2, where the Soviet Union and Allied nations clash in a futuristic war. Command infantry, tanks, and aircraft from either side, and unleash devastating weapons such as nuclear missiles and particle cannons.

6. Age of Mythology

Discover the ancient world in Age of Mythology, a real-time strategy game that weaves mythology into its gameplay. Choose from three civilizations – Greek, Egyptian, or Norse – and command legendary heroes, mythical creatures, and powerful gods to achieve victory.

7. Rise of Nations

Spanning millennia, Rise of Nations offers a vast real-time strategy experience. From the Stone Age to the Modern Era, you must build civilizations, research advancements, and conquer territories to dominate the world.

8. Supreme Commander

Ascend to the strategic heights in Supreme Commander, a real-time strategy game where scale and technological supremacy reign supreme. Command massive armies with a variety of units, including experimental weapons and colossal Titans, and face off in epic battles on immense battlefields.

9. Sins of a Solar Empire

Take to the stars in Sins of a Solar Empire, a real-time strategy game set in space. Build fleets of warships, establish colonies, and explore the vastness of the cosmos while vying for galactic supremacy.

10. Europa Universalis IV

Unleash your diplomatic prowess in Europa Universalis IV, a grand strategy game that simulates the political and military landscape of Europe from the 15th to 19th centuries. Guide your nation through a complex web of alliances, wars, and revolutions.

11. Civilization VI

Rule the ages in Civilization VI, a turn-based strategy game that spans human history. Establish cities, research technologies, engage in diplomacy, and wage war as you strive to build the greatest civilization the world has ever seen.

Effective Strategies for Real-Time Strategy Games

• Build a strong economy: Establishing a solid economic foundation is crucial for producing armies, upgrading structures, and researching advancements.

• Control key resources: Secure access to vital resources such as wood, metal, and oil to fuel your economy and empower your units.

• Plan your attacks carefully: Scout enemy positions, identify weaknesses, and coordinate multiple units for effective assaults.

• Utilize unit diversity: Different units have varying strengths and weaknesses. Mix and match units to create a balanced army capable of handling diverse challenges.

• Upgrade your technology: Ongoing research and development will provide your units with better stats, abilities, and specializations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overextending your army: Do not spread your forces too thinly. Maintain a concentrated and manageable number of units to maximize their effectiveness.

• Ignoring resource management: A neglected economy will cripple your efforts. Monitor your resource levels and adjust production accordingly.

• Failing to scout: Lack of reconnaissance can lead to unexpected attacks and costly losses. Regularly send scouts to reveal enemy positions and anticipate their movements.

• Micromanagement: While attention to detail is important, avoid getting bogged down in managing individual units. Delegate tasks and focus on the bigger picture.

• Neglecting diplomacy: In some games, alliances and trade agreements can provide significant benefits. Do not overlook the diplomatic aspect of the game.

Why Real-Time Strategy Games Matter

• Cognitive development: RTS games engage players' problem-solving, decision-making, and multitasking abilities.

• Strategic thinking: Players learn to plan ahead, adapt to changing circumstances, and anticipate their opponents' moves.

• Teamwork and communication: Multiplayer games foster collaboration and effective communication among players.

How Real-Time Strategy Games Benefit Players

• Improved concentration: RTS games require constant attention, enhancing players' ability to focus and maintain focus.

• Increased problem-solving ability: Overcoming challenges within the game develops players' ability to solve problems creatively and effectively.

• Enhanced strategic planning: RTS games teach players to consider multiple factors, weigh the pros and cons, and make informed decisions.

• Boost in teamwork and communication skills: Multiplayer games promote collaboration and communication, improving players' ability to work with others.

• Reduced stress: Despite the intensity of the gameplay, many players report feeling a sense of satisfaction and stress relief after completing a successful mission or winning a tough match.

Table 1: Age of Empires vs. Other Real-Time Strategy Games

Table 2: Game Modes in Real-Time Strategy Games

Table 3: Unit Types in Real-Time Strategy Games

Table 4: Resources in Real-Time Strategy Games