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Top rts games to enjoy on your steam deck

Expanding RTS Library | Steam Deck Players Share Their Picks

By

Derek James

Dec 28, 2025, 10:18 PM

Edited By

Emily Johnson

Updated

Dec 29, 2025, 04:24 AM

2 minutes of duration

A Steam Deck displaying popular RTS games like Empire at War and Company of Heroes, with game graphics visible on the screen.

A strong debate among players about RTS gaming on the Steam Deck is gaining traction, fueled by feedback and personal experiences. With new comments rolling in, gamers are actively exchanging tips on optimizing their gameplay, especially for titles like Empire at War and Company of Heroes.

Key Game Highlights and User Feedback

Players are thrilled with how certain RTS titles perform on the Steam Deck after making minor controller adjustments. One user stated, "Iโ€™ve been finding RTS play well on the deck with minor controller tweaks." This sentiment reflects a broader sense among players that with a few tweaks, enjoying these games on the go is quite feasible.

Titles such as Northgard and Age of Mythology are still frequently mentioned for their compatibility and smooth performance. A contributor emphasized the utility of connecting the Steam Deck to a TV, adding, "If I want to, I hook it up to my TV and bring out my portable mouse and keyboard." This adaptability enhances the gaming experience for many.

While Dawn of War and Warno were mentioned, players caution that they aren't the simplest titles to navigate on handheld devices. One user noted the ongoing bugs and crashes in a recent game, prompting questions regarding the reliability of certain titles.

Diverse Game Recommendations

Noteworthy mentions in the conversation include:

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Rise of Nations

  • ๐Ÿš€ Star Wars: Empire at War

These suggestions expand the pool of RTS options being discussed. The ongoing debate also highlighted the importance of sticking to traditional RTS games, with players remarking on the distinction between RTS and turn-based titles like Stellaris and Civilization.

The Control Experience: Mixed Feelings

The dialogue around control methods is energetic. Some players profess satisfaction with the Steam Deckโ€™s touchpad controls, with one suggesting to "just up the sensitivity on it" for better performance. Others, however, remain cautious, signaling a divide in user experiences regarding usability.

Key Takeaways

  • โ–ณ Minor tweaks can vastly improve RTS playability on the Steam Deck.

  • โ–ฝ Players highlight concerns about game bugs and stability.

  • โ€ป "If I want to, I hook it up to my TV and bring out my portable mouse and keyboard" - A player's strategy for improved gameplay.

What's Next?

As more gamers share their insights, the push for an expanded RTS library on the Steam Deck continues. With an estimated 60% of current titles likely adapting features for handheld play by the end of 2025, anticipation builds for what innovations developers will introduce based on this community feedback.

Wrapping Up

The engagement surrounding RTS games on the Steam Deck mirrors past gaming trends, emphasizing community interaction as a vital element in shaping experiences. As excitement evolves, players are likely to see further enhancements that refine gameplay on this popular handheld platform.