Top Naval Real-Time Strategy Games

RTS games, both retro and modern, are highly popular in the market. There is a wide variety to select from, including civilization-focused as well as combat-based games. However, naval combat is often overlooked in this genre, with most of the emphasis being on land and air battles.

Nevertheless, naval combat possesses immense excitement. It involves considering numerous factors, and some of the renowned battles in history have occurred on the seas. For gamers looking to recreate these historical battles, there are still options available with a specific focus on naval warfare. The ultimate question remains: which game stands out as the absolute best?

10. War On The Sea

War On The Sea

Platform(s) PCReleased February 2, 2021Developer Killerfish GamesSteam User Rating 77% (October 31, 2023)

War On The Sea provides players with the opportunity to command the naval forces of either the Allied forces or Imperial Japan in a real-time strategy game set in World War 2. With a dynamic campaign and a diverse selection of ships, this game draws inspiration from historical naval battles of the era, allowing players to impact the outcome of the war. It is a suitable choice for beginners in the genre, as it offers a less complex control system compared to other games in its category, thereby reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed.

9. Command And Conquer: Red Alert 3

Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3

Platform(s) PC, PS3, Xbox 360Released October 28, 2008Developer(s) EA Los AngelesSteam User Rating 85% (October 31, 2023)

Command And Conquer: Red Alert 3, one of the most highly revered games in its genre, revolutionized the world of naval combat by incorporating it into its winning formula. This game offers players the unique opportunity to build almost everything offshore, presenting a legitimate strategy to counter massive and formidable land armies. Ignoring the crucial naval aspect of this game can prove disastrous, as it holds equal importance to every other strategic element.

Though Command And Conquer: Red Alert 3 may have been around for some time now, it still stands as a commendable choice for players seeking a thrilling RTS experience centered around naval warfare.

8. Wargame: Red Dragon

Wargame: Red Dragon

Platform(s) PCReleased April 17, 2014Developer Eugen SystemsSteam User Rating 88% (October 31, 2023)

Wargame: Red Dragon offers more than just a naval experience, requiring players to also manage tanks, planes, helicopters, warships, and amphibious units. Despite its alternate reality Cold War setting, the units differ in strength and suitability rather than historical accuracy. While the game's focus is not solely on naval warfare, it's still worth exploring as the battles at sea are diverse and intense. Mastering the naval arena is crucial for achieving success in this game. Those looking for a diverse gaming experience with a strong emphasis on naval elements will find Wargame: Red Dragon to be a top choice.

7. Atlantic Fleet

Atlantic Fleet

Platform(s) PCReleased February 25, 2016Developer(s) Killerfish GamesSteam User Rating 85% (October 31, 2023)

Killerfish is well-known for its outstanding naval strategy games, and Atlantic Fleet is no different. Players have the opportunity to command either the Allies or the German Navy in the most protracted naval battle of World War Two, the Battle of the Atlantic. The game offers a total of 30 missions that are based on real historical events, and players can also customize scenarios according to their preferences. This game combines real-time strategy with fast tactical decision-making, resulting in a truly challenging and immersive experience.

Atlantic Fleet provides players with limited resources, authentic historical units, and realistic weather conditions to navigate. With its in-depth gameplay and immense enjoyment, Atlantic Fleet is definitely a top choice for players.

6. Rule The Waves 3

Rule The Waves 3

Platform(s) PCReleased May 18, 2023Developer Naval Warfare SimulationsSteam User Rating 92% (October 31, 2023)

Rule The Waves 3 encompasses a span of eighty years, from 1890 to 1970, exploring naval development and strategy. Taking on the role of Grand Admiral, players must possess complete control over their naval fleet in order to achieve success. The game's naval combat offers immense tactical depth, which is sure to captivate strategy enthusiasts. However, Rule The Waves 3 is not solely focused on combat, as it also presents challenges regarding budget management, ship design, and espionage. With its comprehensive fleet management gameplay, Rule The Waves 3 stands out as a brilliant choice for players seeking a unique experience within the naval RTS genre.

5. Victory At Sea Pacific

Victory At Sea Pacific

Platform(s) PCReleased September 14, 2018Developer Evil Twin ArtworksSteam User Rating 60% (October 31, 2023)

Victory At Sea Pacific offers players an immersive open-world experience where they can explore and engage in thrilling naval battles. In addition to the excitement of combat and strategy, players must utilize reconnaissance to strategically sabotage enemy supply lines, gradually weakening their forces. Once the groundwork is laid, players can unleash their formidable navy in a massive attack that aims to completely annihilate the opposing forces. Unlike other games in the genre, Victory At Sea Pacific breaks away from set missions and campaigns, adding an extra layer of challenge as players navigate a captivating game of cat and mouse.

4. Battlestations Midway

Battlestations Midway

Platform(s) PCReleased January 30, 2007Developer(s) Eidos InteractiveSteam User Rating 77% (October 31, 2023)

Battlestations Midway goes beyond naval warfare, offering players the opportunity to engage in land and air battles as well. Nevertheless, the game's naval aspect stands out as the most expansive and detailed. With a selection of sixty diverse warships and the ability to switch between a broad-scale real-time strategy perspective and controlling individual units, Battlestations Midway provides a distinctive and multifaceted gaming experience.

Embark on a thrilling journey with Battlestations Midway, as there is an abundance of missions and units to command in this captivating real-time strategy game.

3. Anno 1800

Anno 1800

Platform(s) PC, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series SReleased April 20, 2019Developer Blue ByteSteam User Rating 81% (October 31, 2023)

Anno 1800 is an exceptional game that seamlessly combines multiple genres. The real-time strategy (RTS) aspect truly stands out as players are tasked with safeguarding their city and managing a fleet comprised of ships of varying strengths. The twist of having to build and protect the city adds a personal touch to the combat. Despite focusing solely on naval combat, it is remarkably extensive and engaging. Even when players tire of the RTS elements, they will discover numerous other enjoyable features in Anno 1800.

2. Empire: Total War

Empire: Total War

Platform(s) PCReleased March 3, 2009Developer(s) Creative AssemblySteam User Rating 89% (October 31, 2023)

Empire: Total War stands out as an exceptional addition to the renowned Total War series, presenting gamers with a captivating real-time naval combat experience. Unlike its predecessors, Empire takes players back to the 18th century, where they must strategize and engage without the aid of modern weaponry. Alongside its geopolitical aspect, the true essence of victory or defeat lies in mastering the intense battles. Be prepared for an immersive gameplay experience that transcends beyond the victorious clashes fought at sea.

1. Ultimate Admiral: Dreadnoughts

Ultimate Admiral Dreadnoughts

Platform(s) PCReleased January 25, 2023Developer Game-LabsSteam User Rating 71% (October 31, 2023)

The most outstanding real-time strategy naval combat game currently available to players is Ultimate Admiral: Dreadnoughts. Encompassing six decades of naval history and ship design, players have the opportunity to assume the role of fleet architects. Each minute detail of the ships can greatly impact their effectiveness in combat. The combat experience is truly immersive, as the AI is sophisticated enough to accurately determine the optimal distance for engagement. Furthermore, with the selection of ten empires to control, there is a constant sense of exploration and the opportunity to uncover new aspects of the game.

Ultimate Admiral: Dreadnoughts epitomizes the pinnacle of naval warfare gaming. With a continuously expanding collection of warships and the incorporation of numerous strategic elements, the game offers a challenging, yet highly rewarding experience.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have grown up playing a variety of video games, including real-time strategy (RTS) games. However, I have found that many RTS games focus on land and air battles, with naval combat often being overlooked. This is why I am excited to see the recent release of several new naval RTS games, such as War On The Sea and Atlantic Fleet.

These games offer a unique and challenging experience that is different from other RTS games. In War On The Sea, players must command the naval forces of either the Allied forces or Imperial Japan in a real-time strategy game set in World War 2. The game features a dynamic campaign and a diverse selection of ships, allowing players to impact the outcome of the war. In Atlantic Fleet, players have the opportunity to command either the Allies or the German Navy in the most protracted naval battle of World War Two, the Battle of the Atlantic. The game offers a total of 30 missions that are based on real historical events, and players can also customize scenarios according to their preferences.

I believe that these new naval RTS games offer a great opportunity for gamers to experience the excitement of naval combat. These games are challenging, immersive, and offer a unique experience that is different from other RTS games. I highly recommend checking them out!