Why Real-Time Strategy Games Are Fading and What’s Next for the Genre

The Rise and Decline of RTS Games: A Comprehensive Analysis

Twenty years ago, real-time strategy (RTS) games were at their peak. Ten years ago, they matured further, with expansions and new releases dominating headlines and thriving in esports. However, since 2005, with the growth of consoles and the rise of FPS and RPG genres, RTS began to lose ground. Despite its initial resilience, today, RTS is often considered a niche genre, overshadowed in esports and on gamers’ devices. Ironically, it wasn’t FPS or RPGs that replaced RTS but the emergence of MOBA games like League of Legends, derived from RTS mods like Warcraft 3’s custom maps.

So, has RTS truly become a niche genre? The answer is yes. Despite passionate communities and sporadic successes like Starcraft II: Legacy of the Void, RTS games are undeniably past their prime. The question remains—why has RTS faded into obscurity? Here’s an analysis of commonly proposed reasons:

1. Outdated Graphics?

RTS games are sometimes thought to have fallen behind visually. However, this is a misconception. Even older RTS games, such as Red Alert 3 (2009), required high-end hardware for their time and still hold up graphically. In contrast, many modern MOBA titles are far less demanding. Clearly, graphics aren’t the issue.

2. High Skill Barrier?

RTS games do demand more multitasking and micromanagement than MOBAs, making them daunting for new players. However, casual RTS players often find satisfaction with simple mechanics like left-click-to-select and right-click-to-attack. In fact, the complexity of MOBAs—with their hundreds of heroes, item builds, and strategies—arguably presents a steeper learning curve. The perceived difficulty of RTS games seems exaggerated.

3. Lack of New Content?

It’s true that few new RTS games or expansions are being developed, but this is a symptom rather than the cause. If RTS games were consistently profitable, developers would naturally invest in them. The real issue lies in a market shift: RTS struggles to thrive on consoles and faces piracy challenges on PC. Yet, platforms like Steam and successful monetization models in free-to-play games (e.g., MOBAs) prove these hurdles aren’t insurmountable.

RTS games have always supported multiplayer battles and matchmaking. However, their gameplay style—emphasizing solo strategy over team dynamics—naturally limits their appeal in an era where social gaming dominates.

5. Aging Player Base?

Some argue that the original RTS audience has grown older and moved on. Yet, the real question is why RTS games haven’t attracted new players. MOBAs, which evolved directly from RTS, managed to win over a younger generation. This suggests a shift in design philosophy and accessibility rather than age being the primary factor.

RTS Today: A Genre Evolving, Not Dying

While traditional RTS titles may have declined, the genre has diversified into distinct subcategories:

1. Tactical RTS

Focusing on unit coordination and battlefield tactics, these games downplay resource gathering and construction. Titles like Company of Heroes and Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II emphasize tactical decision-making over micromanagement. Players must adapt to terrain, unit positioning, and specific scenarios, creating a slower, more deliberate style of play. Tactical RTS games appeal to those seeking strategic depth over fast-paced action but remain niche due to their cerebral nature.

2. Action RTS

Fast-paced and mechanically demanding, these games prioritize micromanagement and split-second decision-making. Classics like Starcraft II and Warcraft III require players to manage units, resources, and combat simultaneously. This subgenre dominated esports during its heyday but alienated casual players due to its steep learning curve. Its influence can still be felt in MOBAs, which distilled RTS mechanics into more accessible gameplay.

3. Strategic RTS

These games emphasize long-term planning and macro-level decisions over real-time micromanagement. Titles like Supreme Commander, Sins of a Solar Empire, and Anno 1800 offer vast, complex systems involving diplomacy, economics, and large-scale warfare. Strategic RTS games attract players who enjoy methodical, large-scale problem-solving but can be overwhelming for newcomers due to their complexity.

4. Traditional RTS

The classic form of RTS, pioneered by games like Dune II and Command & Conquer, combines base building, resource management, and large-scale battles. While these games defined the genre, their "jack-of-all-trades" approach lacks the depth of more specialized subgenres. As a result, traditional RTS games have been overshadowed by more focused experiences.

Why Did RTS Decline?

Market Fragmentation: RTS split into subgenres, diluting its audience and development focus.
Changing Player Preferences: Gamers now favor social, accessible, and visually rewarding games, like MOBAs.
Developer Shifts: With esports focusing on high engagement games, studios pivoted toward more lucrative genres.
Steep Learning Curves: While rewarding for hardcore fans, RTS games can intimidate newcomers.

The Future of RTS

Despite its challenges, RTS continues to evolve. Innovative titles are experimenting with new ideas:

Iron Harvest blends tactical and strategic elements.
Northgard simplifies strategy for broader appeal.
Desynced and They Are Billions integrate survival and automation mechanics, attracting fresh audiences.

Players must support these efforts. By championing diverse and creative RTS projects, the genre can find renewed life. The days of RTS reigning supreme may be over, but its spirit persists—reinvented, reimagined, and ready for a new generation.

Rebuilding RTS glory isn’t just a developer’s job—it’s a mission for the entire community. Let’s shape the future of strategy gaming together!