5 Best RTS Games on Xbox Game Pass (April 2024)

Xbox gamers know there's something special about planning a move, making quick decisions, and seeing it all come to life on the screen. That's the magic of Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games. While these games were once more common on PCs, now Xbox fans are getting more and more of them to enjoy. Thanks to the Xbox Game Pass, there's a whole collection of these games ready to be played. Some are perfect for gamers who've loved RTS games for years, while others are great for newcomers. Want to know which ones are the best? You're in the right place. Here are the five best RTS Games on Xbox Game Pass.

5. Brutal Legend

In this action-adventure, players step into the shoes of Eddie Riggs, a roadie turned hero, voiced by the dynamic Jack Black. Set in a universe that blends Lord of the Rings with Spinal Tap, the game offers a fresh take on the action-driving genre. Here, you will battle demons, lead headbanging troops, and drive through a world teeming with rock legends.

Moreover, Brutal Legend combines thrilling action combat with strategic gameplay elements. Players wield a broadaxe for close combat and a guitar that not only slays demons but also casts spells during battles. The unique guitar solo mechanic allows players to summon objects, enhance allies, or weaken enemies, providing a deep combat experience. Throughout the game, you will evolve from a simple roadie to a true rock god by commanding your legions in large-scale battles across an expansive open world.

Also, the game world offers a fully immersive experience, filled with humor, epic music, and heavy metal culture. It features cameos from metal music icons like Lemmy Kilmister, Rob Halford, and Lita Ford, enhancing the authenticity and fun. Every part of this beautifully crafted world vibrates with the energy of a heavy metal album cover.

4. Gears Tactics

Gears Tactics is a captivating turn-based strategy game that builds on the rich narrative and thrilling action of the Gears of War series. This game thrusts players into the chaos of cities falling one by one to the monstrous Locust Horde. The government falters and from this crisis, a group of survivors led by Gabe Diaz rises to challenge the encroaching threat. Players take on the role of Gabe, tasked with recruiting, training, and leading a squad against Ukkon, a monstrous genius who crafts even more fearsome creatures.

In Gears Tactics, every decision impacts survival. The game combines deep strategic elements with the intense tactical combat the Gears series is known for. Players must carefully manage resources, upgrade squad skills, and strategically equip their team to face each challenge. Battles are intense, requiring foresight and adaptability to outmaneuver the enemy.

Furthermore, Gears Tactics enhances the gameplay with massive boss battles that introduce new levels of strategy and excitement. These bosses are not only towering and deadly but also cleverly designed to challenge the strategies players have learned to rely on. And overcoming these bosses requires creativity and can dramatically shift the battlefield dynamics.

3. Dungeons 4

In Dungeons 4, players return to a world of dark fantasy where they play as the Absolute Evil, aiming to conquer the forces of good. This time, alongside the dark elf Thalya, you will build and manage a dungeon deep beneath the earth. Your mission involves expanding your underground domain, filling it with traps to thwart good heroes, and deploying monstrous minions to assert dominance. The game involves crafting a maze of corridors and rooms, setting traps, and managing resources to maintain your evil stronghold.

Furthermore, the overworld – a land of green forests and peaceful realms – awaits your dark touch. Here, you will send your minions to spread evilness, transforming these tranquil lands into domains fit for the wicked. The dynamic gameplay allows you to interact with the environment, turning serene settings into grim landscapes. By defeating mini-bosses like the harmonious Unicorn, you gain evilness points, which help you corrupt the land more efficiently and powerfully.

Cooperation is important in Dungeons 4, as the game features a 2-player cooperative multiplayer mode. In this mode, you and another player can manage the same dungeon, strategizing together to optimise both defense and offense. All campaign maps and skirmish modes are available in co-op.

2. Halo Wars: Definitive Edition

Halo Wars: Definitive Edition brings the excitement of the Halo universe into the realm of real-time strategy games. Players command vast armies from the spaceship Spirit of Fire, engaging in strategic battles across varied terrains. The game includes a comprehensive campaign mode with a gripping storyline that pits human forces against the alien Covenant.

In Halo Wars, players have the chance to lead two different factions: the human UNSC and the alien Covenant. Each group features unique units and abilities, catering to various play styles. The game focuses on strategic thinking, requiring players to manage resources, build bases, and deploy troops strategically to outmaneuver opponents.

The online multiplayer mode adds to the excitement, allowing players to either compete against or collaborate with others worldwide. This feature increases the game's challenge and introduces a social dimension, enhancing replayability. Players can test their strategies against others, learn new tactics, and continuously improve their skills. All in all, Halo Wars: Definitive Edition is a gateway for both fans of the Halo series and newcomers to strategy games and offers a challenging yet accessible experience.

1. Frostpunk: Console Edition

Wrapping up our list, Frostpunk: Console Edition stands out as a profound real-time strategy game that pushes players to their limits. In this game, you lead the last city on Earth, battling against extreme cold and resource shortages. Your main task is to manage both the infrastructure and the moral dilemmas of your society. Players must build sustainable heat sources, allocate scarce resources, and decide laws that will shape the lives of their citizens.

Moreover, Frostpunk challenges players with its unique blend of city-building, survival, and strategy elements. As the city’s leader, you will face critical decisions that impact not only the efficiency of your city but also the welfare of its people. Balancing the needs of your citizens with the available resources requires careful thought and planning. Additionally, the game includes a variety of scenarios to test your leadership, each bringing new challenges and requiring different strategies to succeed.

Furthermore, the choices in this game carry great weight, often forcing players into difficult moral positions. For instance, you may have to choose between enforcing strict laws to maintain order or offering more freedom at the risk of chaos. Each decision can lead to varying outcomes, which affects your city’s future and the spirit of your community.

So, which of these RTS games on Xbox Game Pass have you dived into? And are there any hidden gems we missed? Let us know your thoughts on our socials here.