Episode 2: The RTS Renaissance – Why Strategy Games Are Making a Comeback

The real-time strategy genre has seen its fair share of ups and downs. Once a dominant force in PC gaming, RTS games went through a decline, overshadowed by other genres like first-person shooters and MOBAs. But now, we are witnessing a resurgence—a rebirth that has rekindled the excitement of strategy gamers worldwide. In this episode of Critical Moves, hosts Tim, Nuno, Al, and Joe dive deep into the RTS Renaissance, reflecting on the golden age of the genre, its decline, and the key factors driving its return to relevance.

The conversation begins with a nostalgic look back at the mid-90s and early 2000s, widely regarded as the golden era of RTS games. Games like Command & Conquer: Red Alert, Age of Empires, Warcraft II, and Starcraft defined the genre with their innovative mechanics, deep strategic gameplay, and unforgettable soundtracks. Westwood Studios, Blizzard, and Ensemble Studios led the charge, creating experiences that captivated gamers and set a high standard for strategy games.

However, as gaming trends shifted in the 2000s, RTS titles struggled to maintain their dominance. The transition to 3D posed a significant challenge, with many early 3D RTS games failing to capture the visual clarity and tactical depth of their isometric predecessors. Titles like Warcraft III managed to bridge the gap, but others struggled, leading to a period where the genre stagnated. Additionally, the rise of consoles and their lack of RTS-friendly controls further pushed the genre into the background. With the emergence of fast-paced, competitive online gaming—including MOBAs like League of Legends—RTS games lost much of their mainstream appeal.

But why is the RTS genre making a comeback now? Several factors are at play. First, the rise of digital distribution platforms like Steam allowed for indie developers to revive interest in strategy gaming. Games like Northgard, Steel Division, and Beyond All Reason have emerged as modern takes on classic RTS mechanics, introducing new ideas while staying true to the essence of the genre. The podcast also highlights the impact of XCOM’s revival, which brought turn-based strategy back into the spotlight and indirectly helped reintroduce new audiences to strategy games as a whole.

Additionally, nostalgia has played a significant role in the RTS Renaissance. The success of remasters such as Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition and Command & Conquer Remastered Collection has demonstrated a continued demand for RTS experiences. The discussion also touches on the failures of some modern RTS games, like Company of Heroes 3 and Homeworld 3, which failed to introduce meaningful innovations, reinforcing the idea that successful RTS games need to bring fresh mechanics rather than simply repeating past formulas.

A key theme of this episode is the importance of innovation in keeping the genre alive. While many RTS games stick closely to classic designs, titles like Tempest Rising and Falling Frontier are attempting to push boundaries with new mechanics and gameplay styles. The team also discusses how modding communities have played a vital role in revitalizing old RTS games, citing Beyond All Reason as a prime example of a community-driven project that has evolved beyond its Total Annihilation roots.

For anyone who has ever loved an RTS game or is curious about why the genre is experiencing a resurgence, this episode is a must-listen. The Critical Moves team offers a fascinating breakdown of the RTS journey, from its early innovations to its decline and ultimate rebirth. Whether you’re a die-hard Command & Conquer fan or a newcomer exploring the genre for the first time, this discussion provides valuable insights into what makes RTS games special and why they still have a place in the modern gaming landscape.

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