- #1 Red Solstice 2: Survivors
97% matchMixed70% of 3,307 reviews2021
Dev: IronwardPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Sequel to the best-seller The Red Solstice. Plan your strategy and infiltrate a real-time tactical battlefield - alone or with up to 7 squad members. Can you demonstrate the combat prowess to survive and secure a future for humanity?
Why similar: Real Time Tactics 12.4%, Strategy RPG 12.1%, Aliens 11.3%, Team-Based 9.9%, Zombies 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: This direct sequel refines the tactical squad-based combat and co-op survival mechanics found in the original game.
- #2 Aliens: Dark Descent
96% matchVery Positive88% of 18,082 reviews2023
Dev: Tindalos InteractivePub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 15.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Drop into the gripping journey of Aliens: Dark Descent, a squad-based, single-player action game in the iconic Alien franchise. Lead your soldiers in real-time to stop a new and terrifying kind of Xenomorph outbreak on Planet Lethe.
Why similar: RTS 23%, Real Time Tactics 18.8%, Tactical 18.3%, Aliens 14.2%, Strategy 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a tense, squad-based tactical experience where managing your team's stress and positioning against alien swarms is paramount.
- #3 Infested Planet
96% matchVery Positive94% of 3,025 reviews2014
Dev: Rocket Bear Games
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Command a team of 5 elite soldiers against an alien horde of 100,000. Surrounded on all sides, you must outmaneuver and outsmart the enemy.
Why similar: RTS 30.4%, Strategy 15.3%, Aliens 13.2%, Top-Down 11.3%, Tactical 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features large-scale tactical combat against massive alien swarms from a top-down perspective.
- #4 Satellite Reign
95% matchMostly Positive71% of 5,322 reviews2015
Dev: 5 Lives Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 19.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Satellite Reign is a real-time, class-based strategy game, set in an open-world cyberpunk city. You command a group of 4 agents through rain-soaked, neon-lit streets, where the law is the will of mega-corporations.
Why similar: Real-Time 32.3% ★, Tactical 15.4%, Strategy 10.4%, Sci-fi 10.2%, Co-op 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A real-time tactical game that requires managing a squad of specialists through complex, sci-fi environments.
- #5 Alien Swarm: Reactive Drop
94% matchVery Positive95% of 23,565 reviews2017
Dev: Reactive Drop Team
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 9.9 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Co-operative top-down shooter game available for free. An epic bug hunt featuring a unique blend of co-op play and squad-level tactics.
Why similar: Aliens 30.2%, Tactical 21.9%, Co-op 20.5%, Sci-fi 14.5%, Top-Down 12.9%
Why You'll Like It: A top-down, co-op focused shooter that captures the frantic, squad-based alien extermination feel of the seed game.
- #6 Starship Troopers: Terran Command
94% matchVery Positive87% of 11,807 reviews2022
Dev: The ArtistocratsPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 10.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Lead the Mobile Infantry in this RTS game set in the Starship Troopers film universe. Balance your army composition with a diverse set of unit types, overcome line-of-sight and line-of-fire challenges through tactical positioning, and use special abilities to smash the Arachnid hordes!
Why similar: RTS 32.5%, Real-Time 24.1% ★, Tactical 13.3%, Strategy 12.2%, Sci-fi 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical RTS that focuses on positioning and managing infantry squads against overwhelming insectoid threats.
- #7 HELLDIVERS™ Dive Harder Edition
93% matchVery Positive90% of 33,109 reviews2015
Dev: Arrowhead Game StudiosPub: PlayStation Publishing LLC
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 20.7 hrs≥1hr: 80%
HELLDIVERS™ is a hardcore, cooperative, twin stick shooter. As part of the elite unit called the HELLDIVERS, players must work together to protect SUPER EARTH and defeat the enemies of mankind in an intense intergalactic war.
Why similar: Co-op 29.9%, Online Co-Op 29.5%, Sci-fi 11%, Multiplayer 10.5%, Top-Down 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: This game excels at chaotic, top-down co-op tactical combat against relentless sci-fi enemies.
- #8 Natural Selection 2
92% matchVery Positive85% of 13,335 reviews2012
Dev: Unknown Worlds Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 24.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A fast paced multiplayer shooter that pits aliens against humans in a strategic and action-packed struggle for survival!
Why similar: Team-Based 19.7%, RTS 18.9%, Aliens 14.5%, Multiplayer 11%, Strategy 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: Combines RTS strategy with FPS action, pitting teams against aliens in a tense, sci-fi setting.
- #9 Strain Tactics
91% matchVery Positive85% of 240 reviews2017
Dev: Touch Dimensions Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Strain Tactics is a real-time-with-pause tactical game, where you command a squad of soldiers to liberate earth from an alien infestation. Using your helibase, deploy your custom squad and provide air support. Remember to keep your crew sane and motivated while staying clear of alien contamination!
Why similar: Real Time Tactics 25.5%, Aliens 19.4%, Zombies 16.5%, Strategy 14%, Top-Down 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: A top-down tactical game that emphasizes squad management and survival against biological threats.
- #10 Door Kickers
91% matchVery Positive94% of 9,993 reviews2014
Dev: KillHouse Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Door Kickers is an innovative realtime strategy game that puts you in charge of a SWAT team and lets you command them during a tactical intervention.
Why similar: Tactical 28.3%, Real-Time with Pause 24.6% ★, Strategy 9.4%, RTS 9.4%, Top-Down 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A top-down tactical game that emphasizes careful squad planning and real-time execution in dangerous environments.
- #11 Company of Heroes 2
90% matchMostly Positive79% of 112,575 reviews2013
Dev: Relic Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 57.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Experience the ultimate WWII RTS platform with COH2 and its standalone expansions. This package includes the base game, which you can then upgrade by purchasing The Western Front Armies, Ardennes Assault and/or The British Forces. More info in the "About This Game" section below.
Why similar: Strategy 38.7%, RTS 25.7%, Tactical 9.2%, Real-Time 8% ★, Real-Time with Pause 5.3% ★
Why You'll Like It: Provides deep tactical RTS gameplay where unit placement, cover, and squad management are essential for survival.
- #12 Nuclear Dawn
89% matchMostly Positive78% of 2,487 reviews2011
Dev: GameConnectPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Explore war-torn post-apocalyptic landscapes and take fight against enemies using various weapons in this FPS/RTS hybrid.
Why similar: Real-Time 21.2% ★, RTS 17.5%, Real Time Tactics 10.4%, Team-Based 10.4%, Tactical 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: Blends RTS base-building with squad-based FPS combat, requiring team coordination to succeed.
- #13 Men of War: Assault Squad 2
88% matchVery Positive91% of 46,269 reviews2014
Dev: DigitalmindsoftPub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows
Median: 8.4 hrsMean: 64.0 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Men of War: Assault Squad 2 expands the real-time tactics series with new skirmish missions, massive multiplayer battles, enhanced visuals, improved AI, and full Direct Control. Command five factions across 65 maps, 250 vehicles, and 200 soldiers in one of the most detailed WWII RTS experiences.
Why similar: RTS 29.5%, Strategy 16.3%, Tactical 16.2%, Real Time Tactics 16.1%, Co-op 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: Offers highly detailed tactical control over individual units and squads in a real-time environment.
- #14 Jagged Alliance 3
86% matchVery Positive89% of 14,438 reviews2023
Dev: Haemimont GamesPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 8.2 hrsMean: 22.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
The country of Grand Chien is thrown into chaos when the elected president goes missing and the paramilitary force known as “the Legion” seizes control. Hire mercs, meet interesting characters, and fight in tactically deep turn-based combat in this true successor to a beloved franchise.
Why similar: Tactical 39.2%, Strategy 21.8%, Strategy RPG 19.1%, Co-op 8%, RPG 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on managing a squad of mercenaries with unique skills in a tactical, turn-based environment that rewards careful planning.
- #15 UFO: Afterlight
89% matchMixed65% of 534 reviews2014
Dev: Altar GamesPub: Bohemia Interactive
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 28%
The story is situated on Mars. It starts where UFO: Aftermath left off and runs simultaneously with UFO: Aftershock. While the Laputans on Earth are fighting Wargots and Starghosts and finding out what caused the destruction of their home planet, a small colony on Mars is trying to survive and flourish.
Why similar: Real-Time with Pause 39.5% ★, Tactical 17.6%, Aliens 15.4%, Strategy 14.7%, Sci-fi 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical strategy game set on Mars that focuses on squad management and base development against alien threats.
- #16 Grey Goo
87% matchMixed68% of 4,320 reviews2015
Dev: PetroglyphPub: Six Foot
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Fight for control of a frontier world. Gather resources, build your base, and command your forces in battle. Survive long enough to unleash your ultimate weapon - THE EPIC.
Why similar: RTS 41.3%, Aliens 17.2%, Sci-fi 13.5%, Strategy 12.8%, Multiplayer 8%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style RTS with a strong sci-fi theme and distinct factions that require tactical adaptation.
- #17 XCOM® 2
85% matchVery Positive85% of 107,870 reviews2016
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 12.5 hrsMean: 61.2 hrs≥1hr: 90%
XCOM 2 is the sequel to XCOM: Enemy Unknown, the 2012 award-winning strategy game of the year. Earth has changed and is now under alien rule. Facing impossible odds you must rebuild XCOM, and ignite a global resistance to reclaim our world and save humanity.
Why similar: Tactical 34.9%, Sci-fi 21.8%, Top-Down 18%, Strategy 14.9%, RPG 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive squad-based tactical game featuring sci-fi themes and high-stakes combat against an occupying alien force.
- #18 Fortified
86% matchMostly Positive74% of 1,728 reviews2016
Dev: Siege Camp
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Fortified is an explosive strategy shooter where players will defend the Earth against a menacing Martian invasion in the 1950s. Play as one-of-four pulp inspired heroes as they fight swarms of terrifying robots with an arsenal of Cold War era weapons and experimental technology.
Why similar: Co-op 30.4%, Aliens 25.7%, Strategy 14.3%, Multiplayer 12.2%, Sci-fi 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: Combines tower defense with third-person action, requiring tactical placement and active combat to survive waves of enemies.
- #19 Barotrauma
82% matchVery Positive94% of 86,224 reviews2023
Dev: FakeFishPub: Daedalic Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 54.8 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Barotrauma is a 2D co-op submarine simulator – in space, with survival horror and RPG elements. Steer your submarine, complete missions, fight monsters, fix leaks, operate machinery, man the guns and craft items, and stay alert: danger in Barotrauma doesn’t announce itself!
Why similar: Co-op 38.6%, Multiplayer 21.4%, Sci-fi 16.3%, Difficult 13.4%, Strategy 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A co-op survival game set in a hostile sci-fi environment that requires intense team coordination and tactical management.
- #20 Tempest Rising
82% matchVery Positive88% of 11,317 reviews2025
Dev: Slipgate Ironworks™Pub: 3D Realms
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 9.6 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Command distinct factions in a desperate struggle for power and resources in Tempest Rising - a classic RTS set on Earth after a nuclear war.
Why similar: RTS 59.7%, Strategy 16.7%, Real-Time 13.5% ★, Multiplayer 5.1%, Futuristic 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: A traditional RTS that emphasizes tactical combat and base management in a gritty, sci-fi world.
- #21 Earth 2160
84% matchMostly Positive73% of 1,551 reviews2006
Dev: Reality Pump StudiosPub: Topware Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 93%
After the destruction of the EARTH in 2150, the leaders of the Eurasian Dynasty escaped on board an evacuation fleet. Now they are fighting for the survival of the human species. Their base is one large building comprising of smaller variable parts.
Why similar: Real-Time 50.8% ★, RTS 31.3%, Strategy 9.1%, Aliens 2.8%, Sci-fi 1.6%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi RTS that features base-building and tactical unit management across various alien landscapes.
- #22 AI War: Fleet Command
84% matchVery Positive82% of 1,609 reviews2009
Dev: Arcen Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 87%
"You are outgunned. You are massively outnumbered. You must win." These are your orders. Humanity has already fought its war against the machines -- and lost. AI death squads stand watch over every planet and every wormhole, the few remaining human settlements are held captive in orbiting bubbles, and the AIs have turned their...
Why similar: RTS 27%, Strategy 25.2%, Co-op 10.3%, Real-Time with Pause 9.3% ★, Tactical 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A complex RTS that focuses on asymmetric warfare and tactical survival against an overwhelming AI enemy.
- #23 Ashes of the Singularity: Escalation
83% matchMostly Positive74% of 4,943 reviews2016
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
A massive-scale real-time strategy game where you command entire armies on a dynamic battlefield. Conquer multiple worlds across several single-player campaigns; or play with your friends in multiplayer combat.
Why similar: RTS 27.2%, Real Time Tactics 21.7%, Online Co-Op 11.7%, Co-op 9.3%, Sci-fi 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: A large-scale RTS that focuses on managing massive armies and tactical positioning on the battlefield.
- #24 SYNTHETIK: Legion Rising
81% matchVery Positive94% of 13,046 reviews2018
Dev: Flow Fire Games
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 15.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
SYNTHETIK is an unforgiving tactical shooter rogue-lite where freedom and experimentation is key. Fight in a world overrun by the Machine Legion and their Gods. Experience the next level in gun-play and dive into unparalleled build options and Android upgrades. Can you defeat the Heart of Armageddon?
Why similar: Online Co-Op 32.5%, Difficult 20.4%, Co-op 19.2%, Tactical 10.3%, Top-Down 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A top-down shooter that incorporates tactical elements like weapon management and positioning in a sci-fi setting.
- #25 Original War
80% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,147 reviews2014
Dev: Altar GamesPub: Bohemia Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 14.7 hrs≥1hr: 51%
An American geological expedition, under a UN mandate, assesses the natural resources in a distant part of Siberia, deep in the trackless steppes of Eastern Russia. But instead of oil, they discover a deposit of a hitherto unknown mineral.
Why similar: Real-Time with Pause 26.6% ★, Real-Time 17.5% ★, RTS 16.5%, Sci-fi 7%, Difficult 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A unique RTS that emphasizes individual unit survival and tactical decision-making in a sci-fi narrative.
- #26 Frozen Synapse
81% matchVery Positive83% of 2,620 reviews2011
Dev: Mode 7
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Brings the simultaneous turn-based strategy genre up-to-date and lets you give detailed, accurate orders to your squad.
Why similar: Tactical 44.8%, Strategy 22.1%, Multiplayer 10.5%, Sci-fi 9.8%, Top-Down 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical game that uses a unique real-time-with-pause system to emphasize careful squad movement and planning.
- #27 Supreme Commander: Forged Alliance
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,159 reviews2011
Dev: Gas Powered GamesPub: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 49.0 hrs≥1hr: 75%
The last days of man are at hand.. Two years after the Infinite War the once great warring nations now lie in ruins, and humanity’s hope for a brighter future is nothing but a bitter memory. A new, seemingly unstoppable enemy, supported by the zealots of The Order, now seeks to eradicate mankind: UEF, Aeon Loyalist, and Cybran alike.
Why similar: RTS 35%, Real-Time with Pause 15.1% ★, Real-Time 11.7% ★, Strategy 11.3%, Sci-fi 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Offers massive-scale RTS combat where tactical management of units across a large map is key.
- #28 Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 38,235 reviews2016
Dev: Mimimi GamesPub: Daedalic Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Shadow Tactics is a hardcore tactical stealth game set in Japan around the Edo period. A new Shogun seizes power over Japan and enforces nationwide peace. In his battle against conspiracy and rebellion, he recruits five specialists with extraordinary skills for assassination, sabotage and espionage.
Why similar: Tactical 33.8%, Real Time Tactics 29.5%, Strategy 14.6%, RTS 12.7%, Difficult 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: Requires precise squad-based tactical coordination to overcome superior numbers in stealth-oriented missions.
- #29 Spaceland: Sci-Fi Indie Tactics
78% matchMostly Positive77% of 410 reviews2019
Dev: Tortuga Team
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Incredibly dynamic turn-based strategy, reviving the traditions of the old school tactics. Lead a team of the most desperate fighters, destroy alien monsters and uncover the secrets of the lost planet.
Why similar: Aliens 16.1%, Co-op 12.5%, Tactical 12.3%, Strategy RPG 11.9%, Online Co-Op 9%
- #30 Nomad Fleet
79% matchMixed67% of 213 reviews2016
Dev: Autarca
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Nomad Fleet is a RTS game where you must lead the last remnants of Mankind to safety after a mysterious alien race has hunted them near extinction. Lead a fully armed fleet of battleships, carriers and fighters through a series of randomized scenarios and encounters where they must fight for their survival while scavenging for resources,...
Why similar: Real-Time 38.7% ★, RTS 25.2%, Strategy 17.5%, Sci-fi 13.2%, Atmospheric 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: A space-based RTS that focuses on managing a fleet and tactical survival while on the move.
- #31 MarZ: Tactical Base Defense
77% matchMostly Positive78% of 890 reviews2019
Dev: Giant Grey
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Build your defense base to fight back the undead hordes of Mars and secure the future of the red planet. MarZ is a game of strategy and tactical defense where you must carefully manage your crew and resources as you try to uncover the terrible secrets of the undead.
Why similar: RTS 28.8%, Tactical 19.9%, Zombies 16.2%, Strategy 11.3%, Sci-fi 7.9%
- #32 Sanctum 2
76% matchVery Positive90% of 14,378 reviews2013
Dev: Coffee Stain StudiosPub: Coffee Stain Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Sanctum 2 is the sequel to the world’s first Tower Defense/FPS hybrid game. Pick from four unique character classes and embark on a mission to protect the oxygen-producing Cores from hordes of deadly aliens who are threatened by their existence.
Why similar: Co-op 30.3%, Online Co-Op 16.1%, Strategy 13%, Sci-fi 12.9%, Aliens 11.1%
- #33 Atom Zombie Smasher
76% matchVery Positive90% of 2,090 reviews2011
Dev: Blendo Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 52%
The zombie apocalypse is upon us and it's up to you to evacuate everyone before they fall prey to the undead. Conduct massive rescue operations with a helping hand from snipers, artillery crews, orbital bombardments, and more.
Why similar: RTS 21.2%, Real Time Tactics 20.5%, Zombies 14.3%, Tactical 12.8%, Co-op 10.4%
- #34 Tactical Warfare
74% matchMixed67% of 63 reviews2025
Dev: Mizrab
Windows
The enemy attack on your base is imminent; secure your defenses, mobilize your troops, reinforce key positions, and get ready for the next battle. RTS Tactical Warfare will test your resilience and strategic prowess.
Why similar: RTS 25.7%, Real-Time 21.9% ★, Co-op 11.6%, Online Co-Op 10%, Strategy 8%
- #35 Survivor Squad: Gauntlets
77% matchMostly Positive75% of 163 reviews2015
Dev: Endless Loop Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Command your Squad of Survivors in a game where Line of Sight is extremely important, you cannot shoot what you cannot see. Develop your formations, move as a unit and cover every corner. Leave no man behind!
Why similar: Real-Time with Pause 32.4% ★, Real Time Tactics 19.5%, Zombies 19%, Strategy 15.1%, Top-Down 12.2%
- #36 Phantom Squad
71% matchVery Positive82% of 512 reviews2025
Dev: Ctrl FreakPub: Super Rare Originals
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Phantom Squad is a 1-4 player co-op tactical top-down shooter blending fast-paced combat with real-time strategy. Play solo or team up through online co-op and matchmaking, coordinating movement, positioning, and split-second decisions to survive intense, high-risk missions.
Why similar: Tactical 31.6%, Co-op 28.5%, Real Time Tactics 28.3%, Team-Based 6.4%, Top-Down 1.9%
- #37 Stellar Survivor
75% matchMixed66% of 175 reviews2019
Dev: Sticks & Stones
Windows
Stranded on an alien planet, you must defend your Powercore! Use your weapons to fight hordes of alien enemies and strategically use traps in this new FPS tower-defense survival game!
Why similar: Co-op 23.1%, Aliens 20.6%, RTS 15.8%, Multiplayer 14.2%, Strategy 12.4%
- #38 Planetary Annihilation: TITANS
73% matchVery Positive84% of 14,514 reviews2015
Dev: Planetary Annihilation Inc
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 17.5 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Wage war across entire solar systems with massive armies at your command. Annihilate enemy forces with world-shattering TITAN-class units, and demolish planets with massive super weapons!
Why similar: RTS 29.6%, Real Time Tactics 18.4%, Co-op 10.9%, Online Co-Op 10.5%, Sci-fi 8.6%
- #39 Cortex Command
74% matchMostly Positive72% of 6,052 reviews2012
Dev: Data RealmsPub: Data Realms, LLC
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Choose between different factions, with their own set of expendable soldiers, mechas, and weapons. Protect your brain, mine gold, and destroy the enemy cortex in his bunker complex!
Why similar: Strategy 80.1%, Sci-fi 7.2%, RTS 5.6%, Difficult 4%, Multiplayer 2.1%
- #40 Stellarcraft
70% matchVery Positive91% of 100 reviews2026
Dev: DreamStudios
Windows
Stellarcraft is a sci-fi tower defense adventure: explore alien planets, gather resources, build defenses, and fend off waves of enemies, solo or in 4-player co-op. 🚀
Why similar: Real Time Tactics 21.8%, RTS 19.7%, Co-op 16.4%, Online Co-Op 15.6%, Sci-fi 9.1%
- #41 Interstellar Marines
75% matchMixed54% of 7,874 reviews2013
Dev: Zero Point Software
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 45%
UPDATE 28 AVAILABLE - Interstellar Marines is an immersive tactical sci-fi First Person Simulator in the making, offering a unique blend of tactical gameplay, dynamic environments and non-scripted AI. Play Singleplayer or Co-op/PvP on servers around the world.
Why similar: Tactical 28.2%, Co-op 22.4%, Sci-fi 14.8%, Multiplayer 12.7%, Online Co-Op 8.1%
- #42 Age of Undead
73% matchMostly Positive72% of 97 reviews2022
Dev: Insane Dreamers
Windows
Age of Undead is a multi-genre game (turn-based, RTS, FPS) that allows you to face the frightful Zombie Apocalypse with 3 unique factions: the Army, the Infected, and the Survivors. Make strategic choices in the Campaign, then go into battle and fight to survive!
Why similar: Real-Time with Pause 38.2% ★, RTS 22.9%, Tactical 10.8%, Zombies 10.7%, Real Time Tactics 7.5%
- #43 Blacklist Brigade
70% matchVery Positive92% of 52 reviews2025
Dev: Goat Forest Games
Windows
Blacklist Brigade is a co-op focused top-down shooter game, where players as a part of a mercenary group fight against banana republic dictators and other evil scoundrels.
Why similar: Tactical 15.4%, Online Co-Op 14.8%, Difficult 13.7%, Co-op 11.6%, Real Time Tactics 11.2%
- #44 Dark Prospect
71% matchMixed69% of 103 reviews2023
Dev: CashcowGames
Windows
Dark Prospect is an asymmetrical FPSvsRTS multiplayer game. FPS players must survive by gathering resources, building defenses and fighting against a player or AI who summons, commands, upgrades monsters and casts spells from an RTS perspective.
Why similar: RTS 21.8%, Tactical 19.2%, Team-Based 14.5%, Co-op 13.7%, Multiplayer 11.3%
- #45 M.E.R.C.
73% matchMixed63% of 60 reviews2017
Dev: TinyMob Games
Windows
Experience non-stop, real-time tactical combat with a 4-person squad. Upgrade and recruit units, enhance special abilities, while acquiring better weapons and gear. Take your toughest recruits into action in single player or co-op multiplayer and save humanity from the suppressive Manta force.
Why similar: Real Time Tactics 32.4%, Tactical 23.5%, Strategy RPG 18%, Strategy 14.7%, Multiplayer 11.4%
- #46 Silica
69% matchMostly Positive76% of 4,788 reviews2023
Dev: Martin 'Dram' MelichárekPub: Bohemia Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Silica blends FPS and RTS in epic, photorealistic battles. Choose to fight on the ground or command from above as humans or aliens. Dive into thrilling multiplayer combat or master strategic command. Are you ready to survive and conquer?
Why similar: RTS 29.6%, Aliens 21%, Sci-fi 11%, Multiplayer 10.3%, Co-op 9.3%
- #47 Solstice Chronicles: MIA
72% matchMostly Positive75% of 315 reviews2017
Dev: Ironward
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 89%
In this 2-player twin-stick shooter, use a friendly drone for a game-changing abilities. Survive waves, upgrade, and uncover the mystery in this cooperative, action-packed experience.
Why similar: Aliens 23.5%, Zombies 17.2%, Co-op 14.5%, Futuristic 13.7%, Sci-fi 8.4%
- #48 Special Tactics
72% matchVery Positive83% of 126 reviews2016
Dev: Beast Mode Games
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 43%
ST brings the most intense, tactical-action experience to Steam. Select your custom loadout, plan out strategies and accomplish your objectives. Addictive Survival mode and unrivaled multiplayer including Squads (1 vs 1, 2 vs 2, 2 vs 1)
Why similar: Real Time Tactics 23.8%, Tactical 17.2%, RTS 14%, Online Co-Op 13%, Co-op 12.6%
- #49 X-COM: Apocalypse
70% matchVery Positive88% of 942 reviews2008
Dev: MicroProse Software, IncPub: 2K
Windows
Median: 6 minMean: 17.9 hrs≥1hr: 28%
There's something evil in the city tonight... Earth has been ravaged by human excess, petty conflict and alien invasion. The world's population has been herded into huge cities, the first of which was Mega Primus. 2084: A Utopia shattered, social collapse and civil unrest reigns in Mega Primus. Fiendish aliens terrorize the city.
Why similar: Real-Time with Pause 33.7% ★, Aliens 20.9%, Tactical 18.7%, Strategy 13.9%, Sci-fi 12%
- #50 NovaMundi
67% matchVery Positive84% of 50 reviews2024
Dev: Slashware Interactive
Windows · Mac
NovaMundi is an open world exploration game with tactical combat. Lead your party into the dangerous lands of the Andes. Recruit people in towns, explore caverns filled with dangerous spirits to gain the blessings of the land, and unite the people to stand against the invaders.
Why similar: Real-Time with Pause 28.4% ★, RTS 18.9%, Real Time Tactics 16.1%, Tactical 13.5%, Strategy RPG 10.8%
- #51 The Captain is Dead
69% matchVery Positive82% of 82 reviews2021
Dev: Thunderbox Entertainment
Windows · Mac
It’s the last 10 minutes of your favorite sci-fi TV show… except that this time things have gone seriously wrong and The Captain Is Dead! This turn-based, survival/strategy puts you in the Captain's chair as you try to save your crew from being blown to bits by aliens...
Why similar: Tactical 21%, Co-op 16.6%, Aliens 13.7%, Sci-fi 13.2%, Strategy 10.4%
- #52 Earthfall
69% matchMixed65% of 2,293 reviews2018
Dev: Holospark
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 87%
NOW AVAILABLE! When the Earth falls to an extra-terrestrial invasion, humanity becomes an endangered species. Earthfall is a four-player cooperative shooter that challenges players to survive hordes of ruthless alien drones and their inscrutable masters.
Why similar: Aliens 28.2%, Co-op 24.4%, Online Co-Op 23.4%, Multiplayer 8.1%, Sci-fi 7.6%
- #53 Outlive 25
63% matchVery Positive96% of 206 reviews2026
Dev: Continuum EntertainmentPub: CriticalLeap
Windows
Build your base, prepare your troops, and face your most epic battle yet in this old-school real-time strategy game. Choose between two factions, test your skills in three epic campaigns and engage in online battles with up to 16 players simultaneously.
Why similar: RTS 40%, Futuristic 16%, Co-op 12.2%, Multiplayer 12.1%, Sci-fi 10.6%
- #54 Yet Another Zombie Defense
68% matchVery Positive87% of 12,360 reviews2014
Dev: Awesome Games Studio
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Darkness is coming. How long can YOU survive? Build your base by day, defend it by night. Play in online or local co-op. Stay alive as long as you can.
Why similar: Zombies 82.5%, Co-op 6.3%, Multiplayer 4.1%, Online Co-Op 2.8%, Strategy 1.8%
- #55 Mechs & Mercs: Black Talons
71% matchMixed44% of 165 reviews2015
Dev: Camel 101
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 93%
You are the commander of the Black Talons company, currently stationed in the Oberon system. After an eventful campaign, the military Tzanar Union has overrun the planet of Genai and blocked all departure from the system: leaving you and the Black Talons stranded.
Why similar: Real-Time 28.9% ★, RTS 17.5%, Real Time Tactics 15.4%, Aliens 11.1%, Tactical 9.4%
- #56 Earth vs Mars
64% matchVery Positive86% of 78 reviews2025
Dev: Relic EntertainmentPub: Relic Labs
Windows
Faced with a terrifying Martian invasion, you must lead Earth’s forces in a battle for our planet’s future. Create powerful human-creature super soldiers to fight an alien menace in this turn-based strategy game.
Why similar: Aliens 41.3%, Tactical 26.1%, Multiplayer 14.2%, Strategy 10.4%, Top-Down 4.1%
- #57 Colony Siege
66% matchVery Positive93% of 258 reviews2020
Dev: Finifugal Games
Windows
Colony Siege combines the best of RTS and tower defense, including base building, mazing, and unit physics. Defend Earth's remaining colonies using an arsenal of deadly weapons to torch, slice, throw, and impale swarms of alien invaders.
Why similar: Strategy 24.1%, RTS 22.2%, Real-Time 18.1% ★, Co-op 12.9%, Sci-fi 10.3%