Ten years after its initial publication, PC Gamer is revisiting its list of favorite real-time strategy (RTS) units. This time, however, the goal is not merely to list notable units but to determine the absolute best through a democratic tournament. PC Gamer writers have compiled a shortlist, which has now been seeded into a randomized bracket for a head-to-head competition. Players have two days to vote for their favorites in each matchup, with winners advancing to the next round.
The definition of "best" is intentionally left open to interpretation by the voters, encompassing factors such as combat effectiveness, visual design, or unique gameplay contributions.
The War Begins
The tournament has commenced with 16 diverse units, ranging from the humble Peon to the formidable Executor Super Star Destroyer. The initial matchups are designed to spark debate and surprise, acknowledging that fairness in war is not always a given.
To ensure a fair representation, units that appear across multiple installments of a series have been selected from a specific game; for instance, the Peon is represented by its Warcraft 3 iteration due to its distinctive appearance.
Peon vs. Glass Dragon
Peon (Warcraft 3)
The unsung heroes of Warcraft, Peons are essential to the Orcish war effort, responsible for construction, resource gathering, and maintaining infrastructure. Despite their vital role, they are often overlooked. Their ability to perform various tasks, from chopping wood to constructing buildings, makes them indispensable, even if their direct combat prowess is limited.
Glass Dragon (Rise of Legends)
This unit from Rise of Legends is noted for its striking design and effectiveness in combat, capable of destroying tanks. Rise of Legends itself is described as a unique blend of steampunk, Arabian mythology, and science fiction elements, with the Glass Dragon standing out visually and functionally.
Mammoth Tank vs. Petard
Mammoth Tank (Command & Conquer: Red Alert)
A symbol of Soviet power, the Mammoth Tank is a slow but incredibly potent unit. Its immense cost is justified by its ability to single-handedly dominate battlefields, representing a significant threat to enemy forces.
Petard (Age of Empires 2)
The Petard is a unit with a singular, explosive purpose: to destroy enemy structures. While its use results in its own demise, its effectiveness in demolishing fortifications makes it a valuable, albeit grim, asset.
Psyker vs. Rohirrim
Psyker (Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War)
This unit embodies the perilous nature of magic in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Psykers wield immense power but risk self-destruction or daemonic possession through the "Perils of the Warp" mechanic. Their potent area-of-effect abilities can devastate enemy armies, but their use carries significant risk.
Rohirrim (Lord of the Rings: Battle for Middle-earth)
Known for their cavalry charges, the Rohirrim are a fan-favorite unit, particularly for players who favor aggressive, mobile assaults. Their effectiveness in overwhelming enemy formations makes them a powerful force on the battlefield.
High Templar vs. Pride of Hiigara
High Templar (StarCraft 2)
The High Templar's Psionic Storm ability provides significant area-of-effect damage, capable of clearing out massed enemy units. This unit was a game-changer for players seeking to overcome heavily fortified positions or large enemy forces.
Pride of Hiigara (Homeworld 2)
This massive mobile factory serves as both a unit and a base. While its direct combat capabilities are limited, its ability to produce capital ships and its iconic design make it a significant presence in the game. Its full mobility in Homeworld 2 enhances its utility.
Mirage Tank vs. Ballista
Mirage Tank (Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3)
This stealthy unit excels at ambushing enemies. With enhanced disguises and increased damage-per-second capabilities, the Mirage Tank functions as an effective assassin, capable of dismantling enemy bases when deployed in groups.
Ballista (Warcraft 2)
Simple and effective, the Ballista fires large arrows capable of dealing significant damage. Its straightforward design and powerful projectile make it a formidable siege unit.
Attack Cycle vs. Executor Super Star Destroyer
Attack Cycle (Command & Conquer: Tiberian Sun)
This inexpensive and fast unit is designed for swarm tactics. A large number of Attack Cycles can quickly overwhelm enemy defenses, embodying the Nod philosophy of victory through overwhelming numbers and affordability.
Executor Super Star Destroyer (Star Wars: Empire at War)
Representing the ultimate in Star Wars naval power, this colossal vessel is nearly 19 kilometers long and equipped with numerous turbolaser batteries. Its sheer scale and firepower allow it to dominate entire fleets, making it a truly awe-inspiring presence.
Atreides Sonic Tank vs. Dolphin
Atreides Sonic Tank (Dune 2)
This unit from Dune 2 is a powerful infantry-melting weapon. Its design reflects the unique and imaginative elements of the Dune universe, making it a standout unit.
Dolphin (Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2)
Despite their seemingly non-combatant role, Dolphins are formidable offensive units when deployed in groups. Their sonic blasts can efficiently destroy buildings and vessels, making them a surprising naval threat.
Peewee vs. Priest
Peewee (Total Annihilation)
A basic Kbot unit, the Peewee is characterized by its cheerful demeanor and energetic attack style. It deploys arm blasters and machine-gun fire, embodying a surprisingly joyful approach to combat in a dystopian future.
Priest (Age of Empires)
This unit is known for its iconic "Wololo" ability, which allows it to convert enemy units, offering a unique and often game-deciding strategic option.