RTS Games Struggle Yet AoE2 Still Going Strong 25 Years Later

The RTS Landscape: A Brief Overview

• Golden Era: Titles like (my beloved) Age of Empires 2 and StarCraft defined the late '90s and early 2000s, offering players complex strategies, resource management, and epic battles.

• Decline: The 2010s saw a decline in mainstream RTS releases, with developers shifting focus to genres with broader appeal and more straightforward monetization models.

Challenges Facing RTS Games

1. High Development Costs:

   • Creating a compelling RTS requires significant investment in AI, balanced unit design, and expansive content.

   • Unlike platformers or roguelikes, RTS games haven't found a widely accepted "retro" art style that allows for budget-friendly production.

2. Steep Learning Curve:

   • RTS games demand multitasking, strategic planning, and quick decision-making, which can be daunting for new players.

   • The competitive nature of RTS multiplayer can discourage casual gamers, leading to a niche but dedicated player base.

3. Market Saturation by Genre Giants:

   • Long-standing titles like StarCraft 2 dominate the RTS scene, making it challenging for new entrants to attract a substantial player base.

   • Players often prefer established games with refined mechanics and active communities over new, unproven titles - for example, evidenced by the lack of support for the further expansions to the Age of Empires franchise post Age of Empires 2.

Glimmers of Hope: The RTS Resurgence

Despite these challenges, several factors indicate a potential revival for RTS games:

• Nostalgia and Remasters:

  • The release of Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition rekindled interest in classic RTS gameplay, introducing the genre to a new generation.

  • Upcoming titles like Age of Mythology: Retold aim to capitalize on this nostalgia while updating mechanics for modern audiences.

• Indie Innovations:

  • Independent developers are experimenting with streamlined RTS experiences, focusing on accessibility without sacrificing strategic depth.

  • Games like Tooth and Tail have demonstrated that indie RTS titles can find success by reimagining traditional mechanics.

• Cross-Platform Expansion:

  • Microsoft's decision to bring Age of Empires to PlayStation 5 indicates a strategy to broaden the RTS audience beyond PC gamers.

  • Cross-play support and content parity across platforms can foster larger, more diverse player communities.

The Role of Community and Modding

A vibrant modding community has always been a cornerstone of the RTS genre's longevity. User-generated content keeps games fresh and engaging, extending their lifespan well beyond initial release.

• Custom Maps and Scenarios:

  • Players have created countless custom maps for Age of Empires 2, offering new challenges and experiences.

  • These community-driven creations often become as popular as official content, showcasing the creativity and dedication of the player base.

• Balance Patches and Quality of Life Improvements:

  • Modders frequently address balance issues and implement features that enhance gameplay, sometimes influencing official updates.

  • This collaborative relationship between developers and the community fosters a sense of ownership and investment among players.

Looking Ahead: Strategies for a Sustainable RTS Future

For RTS games to thrive in the modern gaming ecosystem, developers might consider the following approaches:

• Lowering Barriers to Entry:

  • Implement comprehensive tutorials and adjustable difficulty settings to make games more accessible to newcomers.

  • Design user-friendly interfaces that reduce complexity without diluting strategic depth.

• Embracing Free-to-Play Models:

  • Offer the base game for free, with monetization through cosmetic items or expansion packs, to attract a broader audience.

  • Ensure that in-game purchases do not confer competitive advantages, maintaining a fair playing field.

• Fostering Competitive and Casual Play:

  • Develop separate modes catering to both hardcore competitive players and those seeking a more relaxed experience.

  • Regularly host community events and tournaments to keep the player base engaged and invested.

While RTS games face significant challenges in today's gaming landscape, a combination of nostalgia, innovative design, and community engagement offers a path forward. By learning from past successes and adapting to current trends, the genre can carve out a renewed and enduring presence in the hearts of gamers.