Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games, once predominantly associated with PC gaming, have successfully made their mark on consoles. With advancements in hardware capabilities and intuitive control schemes, players can now experience the thrill of commanding armies and conquering foes from the comfort of their living rooms. In this article, we explore the seven best RTS games available on consoles. These titles showcase the genre’s adaptation and excellence in the console gaming landscape.
RTS games tried to make the leap to consoles for many years. Way back in the days of the original PlayStation and Nintendo 64 we had ports of Command & Conquer and StarCraft. Of course, these titles had varying degrees of success. As time went on developers started finding more intuitive ways on controlling large scale armies on a battlefield.
In the modern era, we have numerous RTS games on console that are more than worth your time. Below you’ll find Chit Hot’s top picks for the seven best RTS games on console. But before we dive in, a special shoutout to Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-Earth II. A great RTS that often gets overlooked.
Best RTS Games on Consoles
Halo Wars 2 (Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
Developed by 343 Industries and Creative Assembly, Halo Wars 2 brings the iconic Halo universe to the realm of RTS. This Xbox-exclusive title delivers a compelling blend of tactical warfare and the rich lore of the Halo series. The game features accessible controls designed for consoles and a visually stunning presentation. Players command powerful armies, including familiar Halo units, in epic battles against the Banished. Halo Wars 2 stands as a testament to the successful integration of RTS gameplay into the console environment.
Stellaris: Console Edition (PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
Paradox Interactive’s Stellaris, known for its deep and expansive 4X (explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate) strategy gameplay, has made a seamless transition to consoles with the Stellaris: Console Edition. The game offers an unparalleled space strategy experience. Players lead their interstellar civilizations to explore the cosmos, engage in diplomacy, and navigate complex political landscapes. The game’s intuitive console controls and the inclusion of a vast galaxy to conquer make Stellaris a standout title in the console RTS genre.
Tooth and Tail (PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5)
Tooth and Tail, developed by Pocketwatch Games, redefines the RTS genre with its accessible and fast-paced gameplay tailored for consoles. Set in a world of animal factions, players engage in battles over procedurally generated maps, using simplified controls that make commanding armies intuitive on consoles. With its unique art style and emphasis on strategic decision-making, Tooth and Tail delivers a refreshing and enjoyable RTS experience.
Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars (PlayStation 3, Xbox 360)
Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars successfully made its mark on consoles, showcasing the adaptability of RTS games. Released in 2007, the game delivered an immersive and strategic experience tailored for controllers. The intuitive control scheme allowed players to seamlessly navigate the battlefield, deploy units, and manage resources with ease. The multiplayer mode, a crucial aspect of the Command & Conquer series, thrived on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, providing players with the opportunity to engage in intense battles with friends or competitors online.
They Are Billions (PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S):
Numantian Games’ They Are Billions introduces a unique blend of RTS and survival elements to consoles. The player is challenged players to build, defend, and survive in a steampunk-infused post-apocalyptic world. The game’s intense strategy, hordes of infected enemies, and the need for meticulous base-building translate well to console controls. They Are Billions showcases the adaptability of the RTS genre to console platforms, delivering a gripping and challenging experience for players on both PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
Age of Empires IV (Xbox Series X|S):
While the Age of Empires series has a rich history on PC, the upcoming Age of Empires IV made its debut on Xbox Series X| last year. This marked a significant move for the franchise into the console realm. Developed by Relic Entertainment, Age of Empires IV brings the beloved RTS gameplay to consoles with a focus on historical eras, diverse civilizations, and engaging campaigns.
Stormrise (PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)
Marmite, you either love it or hate it. Stormrise is the console RTS equivalent of marmite. Released in 2009, the game introduced an innovative control system known as the “whip” mechanic. Departing from traditional control schemes, the whip system allowed players to navigate the battlefield by directly pointing and commanding units with a flick of the analog stick. This intuitive control method sought to overcome the inherent challenges of translating the precision of a mouse and keyboard setup to consoles. While ambitious in its attempt to revolutionise the genre, Stormrise‘s whip control system faced mixed reviews, with some praising its innovation and others grappling with a learning curve.
The evolution of RTS games on consoles has showcased the adaptability of the genre to diverse gaming platforms. From commanding armies in the Halo universe to navigating complex political landscapes in outer space, these seven best RTS games on consoles offer a range of strategic experiences. As technology continues to advance, and developers refine console-friendly controls, the future holds even more promise for the growth and excellence of RTS gaming on consoles.
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