Top Company of Heroes Alternatives for RTS Fans
Company of Heroes, the acclaimed 2006 real-time strategy (RTS) game developed by Relic Entertainment, plunged players into the gritty realities of World War II's Battle of Normandy. With its focus on capturing strategic sectors, building bases, and commanding U.S. military units, it set a high bar for RTS titles. However, even the best games can leave players craving new experiences or different mechanics. If you're a fan of Company of Heroes and looking for your next tactical challenge, you're in luck. There's a vibrant world of real-time strategy games out there, offering unique takes on the genre. Let's explore some fantastic Company of Heroes alternative options that might just become your next favorite.
Top Company of Heroes Alternatives
Whether you're seeking epic sci-fi battles, historical conflicts, or innovative gameplay, these RTS titles offer compelling reasons to dive in. Discover a new strategic masterpiece to command!
Starcraft
Starcraft, released in 1997, is a legendary real-time strategy game that allows you to command the exiled Terrans, the relentless Zerg, and the abiding Protoss. Available commercially for Mac and Windows, this sci-fi RTS offers extensive multiplayer features, making it a fantastic Company of Heroes alternative for those who enjoy competitive and deep strategic gameplay beyond historical settings.
Warcraft III
Warcraft III, a generation before the original Warcraft, is another real-time strategy masterpiece by Blizzard Entertainment. This commercial title is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, focusing purely on its robust RTS mechanics. If you appreciate the strategic depth of Company of Heroes but are looking for a rich fantasy setting and hero-centric gameplay, Warcraft III is an excellent Company of Heroes alternative.
OpenRA
OpenRA is a free and open-source real-time strategy game engine that allows you to play modernized versions of classic RTS titles like Command & Conquer, Red Alert, and Dune 2000. Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, OpenRA brings classic RTS gameplay to modern platforms. As an open-source RTS, it provides a flexible and community-driven Company of Heroes alternative, perfect for fans of foundational RTS mechanics.
Warzone 2100
Warzone 2100 is a free and open-source real-time strategy game where you join "The Project" to restore humanity's synaptic-link technology after a devastating nuclear war. It's available on Mac, Windows, Linux, BSD, and PortableApps.com, featuring a unique unit customization system and a strong emphasis on research and development. Its free, open-source nature and portable features make it a compelling Company of Heroes alternative for those seeking a post-apocalyptic RTS experience.
Zero-K
Zero-K is a free and open-source real-time strategy game known for its epic battles and breathtakingly gigantic scenes of destruction. Available for Windows and Linux, it's highly portable and features a massive scale of combat that far exceeds most RTS games. For players who love the strategic depth of Company of Heroes but desire an even grander scale of action and a vibrant open-source community, Zero-K is an excellent Company of Heroes alternative.
Command and Conquer
Command & Conquer (C&C) is a legendary real-time strategy franchise, with its first game being one of the earliest and most influential RTS titles. Available commercially for Windows and Linux (via Wine), the C&C series focuses on resource gathering, base building, and direct combat. If you appreciate the classic RTS feel and strategic decision-making in Company of Heroes, Command & Conquer offers a rich legacy of similar RTS gameplay as a strong Company of Heroes alternative.
Dune Legacy
Dune Legacy is an open-source effort to revitalize Dune II, often credited as the first real-time strategy game. Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, it offers endless gameplay based on the classic formula. For those who appreciate the historical significance of Company of Heroes and want to explore the roots of the RTS genre, Dune Legacy offers a free and open-source Company of Heroes alternative with timeless strategic appeal.
Earth
The Earth series (Earth 2140, 2150, 2160) are commercial 2-D real-time strategy games developed by Reality Pump Studios. Available for Windows and Linux, these sci-fi RTS titles feature engaging multiplayer modes. If you enjoy the blend of base-building and strategic combat found in Company of Heroes but are looking for a futuristic setting and similar RTS mechanics, the Earth series is a solid Company of Heroes alternative.
Dune
The Dune game series, including Dune II, Dune 2000, and Emperor: Battle for Dune, are commercial RTS titles based on the iconic sci-fi universe. Available for Windows, AmigaOS, and PlayStation, these games are fundamental to the RTS genre. For fans of Company of Heroes who appreciate classic RTS gameplay and want to explore a rich sci-fi narrative, the Dune series offers compelling gaming experiences as a noteworthy Company of Heroes alternative.
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War is a military science fiction RTS developed by Relic Entertainment, the same studio behind Company of Heroes. Based on Games Workshop's tabletop game, it's available commercially for Mac, Windows, and Linux (via Wine, Steam). Featuring robust gaming, multiplayer, and single-player modes, Dawn of War offers a similarly polished and engaging RTS experience to Company of Heroes, but in a grimdark sci-fi universe, making it a natural Company of Heroes alternative for fans of Relic's style.
Finding the perfect real-time strategy game means weighing your preferences for setting, complexity, and features. Whether you're drawn to the epic fantasy of Warcraft, the classic sci-fi of Starcraft, or the open-source innovation of Warzone 2100, there's a strong Company of Heroes alternative waiting for you. Dive into these titles and discover your next grand strategy!