Is the RTS Genre Dead? Legend Frank Klepacki Defends Real-Time Strategy

If you have spent any time in gaming circles, you have heard the sentiment: the RTS genre is a relic of the 90s, buried alongside CRT monitors and physical strategy guides. However, Frank Klepacki—the mastermind behind the legendary soundtracks for Command & Conquer and Dune 2—has a different take. According to the composer, rumors of the genre’s demise have been greatly exaggerated, and the strategy format is simply waiting for a fresh wave of innovation.

Why the RTS Genre Isn’t Actually Dead

Klepacki points out that while the RTS genre no longer dominates the cultural conversation like it did during the golden era of Warcraft or Command & Conquer, it never truly vanished. The industry functions in cycles, where different genres take turns in the spotlight. While first-person shooters and open-world RPGs have captured the modern zeitgeist, the core appeal of real-time strategy remains intact.

The genre isn’t going away; it is just that other types of games have taken the forefront of attention. Everything runs in cycles, you know?

The persistence of the genre is visible today, with several classic franchises seeing revivals and new projects on the horizon, including:

• The continued popularity of Age of Empires and Age of Mythology.
• New campaigns for Warcraft 3 and the survival of Company of Heroes.
• Upcoming high-profile projects like the Game of Thrones RTS.

The Call for More Triple-A Creativity

While the genre is breathing, Klepacki highlights a significant issue: a growing aversion to risk among big-budget developers. He notes that while the indie scene is constantly experimenting with innovative mechanics, the middle ground of the industry has largely disappeared. The lack of RTS genre innovation at the triple-A level is not due to a lack of player interest, but rather a lack of corporate willingness to fund unique, original concepts.

What Changes Does the Industry Need?

For the genre to reclaim its former glory, Klepacki suggests that developers need to stop treating RTS games as safe, iterative sequels and start taking creative chances again. The DNA of the genre lives on in MOBAs and other hybrid titles, but there is still a massive appetite for the classic top-down tactical experience. To revitalize the scene, studios should focus on:

• Breaking away from the rigid “collect and conquer” loops of the 90s.
• Investing in narrative-driven, large-scale strategy experiences that justify triple-A budgets.
• Encouraging cross-genre innovation rather than chasing industry trends.

Ultimately, Klepacki’s perspective serves as a reminder that genres don’t die—they evolve. As long as developers are willing to iterate and inject fresh, creative ideas into the formula, the tactical thrill of real-time strategy will continue to find a home with modern gamers.

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