Tempest Rising has officially arrived on PC via Steam—and not exactly on schedule. Originally slated for release on April 24, 2025, the Command & Conquer-inspired real-time strategy game surprised fans by launching a full week early, on April 17. A mix-up in Steam’s release schedule gave early access to all users instead of just Deluxe Edition buyers, and instead of pulling it back, developer Slipgate Ironworks and publishers 3D Realms and Knights Peak decided to roll with it. The response? Overwhelmingly positive.
A Modern RTS Rooted in Retro DNA
Set in an alternate 1997 where the Cuban Missile Crisis escalated into nuclear war, Tempest Rising unfolds on a scarred Earth now obsessed with a strange new resource—Tempest. Players take command of two asymmetrical factions:
- The Global Defense Forces (GDF): a NATO-style coalition with conventional firepower and solid defensive capabilities.
- The Tempest Dynasty: a post-war eastern power that favors speed, aggression, and mobile base mechanics.
The game pays clear homage to the golden age of RTS, particularly the Command & Conquer series, but infuses it with modern gameplay elements. Units come equipped with active abilities, and both factions utilize unique building and harvesting mechanics. For example, Dynasty harvesters can transform into deployable buildings—introducing tactical flexibility rarely seen in the genre.
Gameplay Breakdown
- Two 11-mission Campaigns: Experience the war from both GDF and Dynasty perspectives.
- Multiplayer Mayhem: 1v1, 2v2, and FFA modes are live, with newly added ranked matchmaking and global leaderboards.
- Unit Diversity: Both factions include dozens of distinct units with differing strategies, strengths, and weaknesses.
- Global Abilities: Each faction wields battlefield-changing special abilities, adding another layer of strategic depth.
What’s New: Ranked Play, Leaderboards & More
To mark the official release week, Tempest Rising received its first major update:
- 1v1 Ranked Matchmaking: Now live, letting competitive players test their mettle.
- Leaderboards: Track performance across the globe.
- Extended Launch Trailer: A deeper look at the game’s visual style, music, and narrative tone.
- Future Features Teased: Developers are working on team queuing for multiplayer, spectator mode, expanded skirmish options, and the introduction of a third playable faction—the Veti, currently featured in the campaign.
Critical and Fan Reception
As of today, Tempest Rising holds a “Very Positive” rating on Steam with over 3,000 reviews.
- PC Gamer praised its campaign pacing and mechanical balance, scoring it 85%.
- IGN called it “a smart return to form” that “delivers satisfying depth even if it doesn’t break much new ground.”
- Players are praising its unit control responsiveness, faction design, and nostalgic yet fresh take on base-building warfare.
Deluxe Edition Update
While Deluxe Edition buyers lost their promised exclusive early access due to the Steam mix-up, the developers are preparing bonus in-game content specifically for those players as compensation—details are expected in an upcoming developer post.
Bottom Line:
Tempest Rising is more than just a throwback—it’s a revitalization. With its polished gameplay, asymmetric design, and commitment to community-driven updates, it’s shaping up to be a must-play RTS in 2025. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or a newcomer looking for a modern strategy fix, Tempest Rising delivers the goods.
Key Takeaways
- Tempest Rising launches April 24, 2025, on Windows PC with pre-orders available now for $39.99.
- The game features two playable factions in an alternate timeline where the Cuban Missile Crisis led to World War 3.
- Early access begins April 17, giving players a head start on experiencing this classic-style RTS from 3D Realms and Slipgate Ironworks.
Overview of Tempest Rising
Tempest Rising brings back the golden age of real-time strategy games with its classic base-building mechanics and three distinct factions, each offering unique gameplay approaches. Set in an alternate 1997 where the Cuban Missile Crisis escalated into World War 3, this highly anticipated RTS combines nostalgic elements with modern improvements.
Gameplay Mechanics
Tempest Rising focuses on traditional RTS elements that fans of classic games like Command & Conquer will recognize. Players build bases, gather resources, and command armies in real-time battles. The game features three unique factions, each with different combat styles and economic systems that cater to various strategic approaches.
Resource management plays a central role, with players needing to balance economy and military production. The game rewards skill while maintaining a strategic focus, avoiding the micro-management pitfalls of some modern RTS titles.
Customization options allow players to adapt their playstyle in both single-player and multiplayer modes. Quality-of-life improvements bring the classic RTS formula into 2025, with streamlined controls and user interface elements that maintain depth without unnecessary complexity.
Storyline and Setting
Tempest Rising is set in an alternate timeline where history took a dark turn. After the Cuban Missile Crisis escalated into nuclear World War 3, the world of 1997 looks dramatically different from our own. This post-apocalyptic setting creates a tense backdrop for the factional conflicts.
The three main factions include:
- Global Defense Force (GDF): A conventional military force likely representing established world powers
- Tempest Dynasty: A mysterious faction with unique technology and approach
- Third Faction: Details remain limited but expected to offer another distinct playstyle
The campaign mode will let players experience this fractured world through story-driven missions. Each faction appears to have its own perspective on the conflict, potentially allowing players to see the war from multiple angles.
Art and Graphics
Tempest Rising adopts a visual style reminiscent of classic 90s RTS games while incorporating modern graphical enhancements. The game features detailed unit models and environmental effects that capture the post-apocalyptic setting without sacrificing clarity.
The art design emphasizes readability during hectic battles – a crucial element in strategy games. Each faction has a distinct visual identity, making units instantly recognizable during combat. This approach helps players make quick tactical decisions while enjoying the visual spectacle.
Environments reflect the war-torn world, with maps featuring diverse terrain types that affect gameplay. Special effects for weapons, explosions, and abilities add visual excitement without overwhelming the strategic elements. The graphics strike a balance between nostalgia and modern expectations, appealing to both veteran RTS players and newcomers.
Development and Studios
Tempest Rising has been shaped by multiple talented studios working together to create this classic real-time strategy game. The collaborative effort brings together experienced teams with a history in developing memorable strategy titles.
Slipgate Ironworks’s Role
Slipgate Ironworks serves as the primary development studio behind Tempest Rising. The team has leveraged their expertise in creating engaging gameplay mechanics that appeal to RTS veterans. Their focus on balancing the three distinct factions within the game demonstrates their commitment to competitive play.
Slipgate’s developers have implemented modern graphical capabilities while maintaining the classic RTS feel that many players appreciate. The studio has been particularly attentive to community feedback during development phases.
The team’s previous experience with action and strategy games has informed their approach to Tempest Rising’s unit design and resource management systems. Their work ensures that the game meets current technical standards while running smoothly on various PC configurations.
3D Realms’ Contribution
3D Realms has taken on a publishing role for Tempest Rising, bringing decades of industry experience to the project. Their influence can be seen in the game’s marketing strategy and overall presentation.
The publisher has provided valuable guidance on positioning Tempest Rising within the competitive RTS market. Their experience with classic game revivals has helped shape the project’s direction.
3D Realms has coordinated promotional events for the game, including its appearance at Steam Next Fest 2025. The publisher has also managed the pre-order campaign, which includes the Deluxe Edition with early access benefits and the commander pack.
Their industry connections have helped increase visibility for the project ahead of its April 24, 2025 release date.
Partnerships and Collaborations
External partnerships have strengthened Tempest Rising’s development. Technical collaborations have improved the game’s performance on both Windows 10 and 11 systems, with specific optimizations for Intel Core i5-7400 and AMD Ryzen 5 processors.
The development team has worked with experienced RTS designers to refine gameplay mechanics. These consultants have contributed to mission design and campaign structure.
Testing partnerships have been crucial for balancing multiplayer components. External QA teams have helped identify issues before major public demonstrations.
Marketing collaborations have resulted in effective promotion through events like the PC Gaming Show, where the April 2025 release date was first announced with a trailer. These partnerships extend to digital distribution platforms, with Steam being the primary launch platform.
Strategic Elements
Tempest Rising offers deep strategic gameplay through its carefully balanced factions, mission variety, and competitive mechanics. Players will need to master resource management, base building, and unit counters to succeed in this classic RTS experience.
Faction Characteristics
The game features distinct playable factions with unique strengths and playstyles. The Global Defense Force focuses on conventional military technology with reliable units and defensive capabilities. They excel at establishing fortified positions and deploying powerful combined arms tactics.
The Tempest Dynasty takes a different approach with experimental technology and aggressive expansion. Their units often sacrifice durability for speed and firepower, making them ideal for players who prefer rapid assaults and mobility.
Each faction has its own tech tree, specialized units, and strategic options. These differences create meaningful choices during gameplay rather than just cosmetic variations.
Resource gathering mechanics also vary between factions, with GDF using traditional methods while Tempest employs more unconventional resource extraction techniques.
Mission Design
The campaign missions in Tempest Rising follow a narrative set in an alternate 1997 timeline where the Cuban Missile Crisis escalated into World War 3. Each mission introduces new challenges and strategic scenarios that test players’ adaptability.
Objectives vary from traditional base building and enemy elimination to specialized tasks like:
- Defending critical locations against waves of enemies
- Rescuing and extracting units from hostile territory
- Capturing and holding strategic points
- Resource gathering under pressure
The difficulty progression is designed to teach players core mechanics before introducing more complex scenarios. Early missions focus on basic concepts while later challenges require mastering faction-specific strategies.
Mission environments also influence tactical decisions, with terrain features providing advantages or creating obstacles that players must navigate.
Competitive Gameplay
Tempest Rising embraces classic RTS competitive elements with modern quality-of-life improvements. The multiplayer mode supports both casual and competitive play with matchmaking systems and leaderboards.
Key competitive features include:
- 1v1 and team-based modes across various map types
- Custom game settings to adjust starting resources and victory conditions
- Observer tools for spectating matches and tournaments
The balance between factions has been carefully tuned for fair competition while maintaining their unique identities. This creates a meta-game where players can develop specialized strategies for each faction matchup.
Macro management (economy and production) and micro control (unit positioning and abilities) are equally important, rewarding players who can excel at both aspects. The game speed allows for meaningful decision-making while still requiring quick reflexes during engagements.
Release and Availability
Tempest Rising will officially launch on April 24, 2025, with pre-purchase options already available. Players who pre-order can gain advanced access beginning April 17, one week before the full release.
Windows Launch Details
Tempest Rising is set to release exclusively for Windows PC via Steam on April 24, 2025. The game has been jointly developed by 3D Realms and Slipgate Ironworks, with Knights Peak handling publishing duties.
The standard edition is priced at $39.99 and is currently available for pre-purchase on Steam. Players who secure their copy early will receive special Advanced Access starting April 17, 2025, giving them a one-week head start.
Pre-ordering also grants players the opportunity to experience this modern real-time strategy game that many are describing as “the ideal version of a modern Command and Conquer.”
International Release
Tempest Rising will launch simultaneously across major regions including the USA and EU on April 24, 2025. The global release strategy ensures that players worldwide can experience the game at the same time without regional delays.
The game has been featured prominently at gaming events, including an announcement trailer at the PC Gaming Show. This international marketing push highlights the publisher’s commitment to a worldwide release.
Players from all supported regions can access the same pre-purchase benefits, including the April 17 Advanced Access period. Regional pricing may vary depending on local currencies and market standards.
Marketplace and Platforms
Tempest Rising will launch primarily on PC through Steam on April 24, 2025, with no immediate console release plans announced. The real-time strategy game has generated significant interest within the PC gaming community since its reveal.
Steam Distribution
Tempest Rising will be available exclusively on Steam for its initial release. Players can currently pre-purchase the game for $39.99, securing their copy ahead of the April 24 launch date.
Those who pre-order will receive special benefits including Advanced Access starting on April 17, 2025. This early access period gives dedicated fans a head start one week before the official release.
Steam is prominently featuring Tempest Rising in its upcoming releases section. The game may also be showcased during Steam’s Real-Time Strategy Fest events, which highlight notable upcoming RTS titles.
Console Availability
As of March 2025, there are no official announcements regarding Tempest Rising releases for PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo platforms. The developers have focused exclusively on PC development for this classic-style RTS game.
Many modern RTS games eventually make their way to consoles after initial PC releases, but this depends heavily on control scheme adaptations and performance considerations. The complex interfaces typical of RTS games often require significant redesign for controller input.
The developers may consider console ports after gauging the game’s success on Steam, but potential console players should not expect PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo versions in the immediate release window.
Player Resources
Tempest Rising offers several ways for players to engage with the game before its April 2025 release. Players can access official content and connect with other fans through various channels.
Demo Experience
A playable demo of Tempest Rising will be available during Steam Next Fest 2025. This demo gives players an early taste of the RTS gameplay that draws inspiration from classic titles like Command and Conquer.
The demo focuses on showcasing two of the game’s three unique factions. Each faction features distinct combat approaches and economic systems, allowing players to experiment with different strategies.
Players can test both single-player content and get a feel for the multiplayer mechanics that will be available in the full game. The demo helps players understand the game’s focus on strategic depth while rewarding skill.
Fan Communities and Forums
The Tempest Rising community is growing across multiple platforms. Reddit hosts an active community at r/TempestRising where fans discuss game announcements, share strategies, and analyze trailers.
Steam’s community hub serves as another gathering place for discussions. Here, players can find official updates and connect with others interested in the game.
Discord channels dedicated to Tempest Rising offer real-time conversations about the upcoming RTS. These spaces allow fans to share feedback on the demo and organize multiplayer sessions.
The official game website maintains forums where developers occasionally participate in discussions, providing insights into development decisions and gameplay mechanics.
Promotional Activities
The marketing campaign for Tempest Rising has been ramping up ahead of its April 24, 2025 release date. Publishers Knights Peak and developers 3D Realms and Slipgate Ironworks have implemented a strategic mix of in-person events and digital advertising.
Presence at Gaming Festivals
Tempest Rising made a significant splash at the PC Gaming Show where developers revealed the official release date with a new trailer. The announcement generated substantial buzz among real-time strategy enthusiasts, as evidenced by the positive reception on Reddit and other gaming forums.
The game is expected to appear at several upcoming industry events before its April launch. PAX East 2025, occurring just weeks before release, will likely feature playable demos for attendees.
The development team has also been hosting livestreams on Steam, showcasing gameplay mechanics and the unique faction designs of both the Global Defense Forces and the Tempest Dynasty. These interactive sessions have helped build community interest in the alternate-history 1997 setting.
Advertising Campaigns
Knights Peak has launched a multi-platform advertising strategy focused on reaching the core RTS audience. Digital ads highlighting the game’s classic base-building mechanics have appeared across major gaming websites and YouTube channels dedicated to strategy games.
The Steam page for Tempest Rising features prominently in the Steam Real-Time Strategy Fest, a targeted promotional event that connects RTS fans with upcoming titles in the genre. This placement has helped increase wishlists ahead of the April 24 release.
Social media campaigns emphasize the game’s alternate timeline where the Cuban Missile Crisis escalated into World War 3. These posts typically feature gameplay footage, faction details, and development insights.
Pre-order bonuses and special editions have been announced, including exclusive in-game content for early adopters who purchase before the April launch date.
Reception and Expectations
Tempest Rising has generated significant buzz within the RTS community since its announcement. The game’s retro-inspired visuals and promise of traditional RTS gameplay have caught the attention of both critics and players alike.
Critical Previews
Early previews of Tempest Rising have been largely positive, with many critics praising its visual style and classic RTS mechanics. Gaming outlets have highlighted the game’s clear inspiration from genre classics while introducing modern elements. Some reviewers have expressed concern about balance issues, drawing comparisons to Crossfire: Legion, which struggled with similar problems.
Journalists who’ve had hands-on time with demo builds note the distinct differences between the two playable factions – the Global Defense Forces and the Tempest Dynasty. The unit diversity and base-building mechanics have received particular praise.
Technical aspects like pathfinding and UI design have been mentioned as areas still needing refinement before the April release date.
Player Anticipation
The RTS community has shown considerable enthusiasm for Tempest Rising, with many viewing it as a potential revival of the classic RTS formula. Steam forums and Reddit discussions reveal high expectations among strategy game fans.
Players have expressed excitement about:
- The traditional base-building mechanics
- Distinct faction designs
- Visual style reminiscent of Command & Conquer
- Promised campaign mode
Some community members remain cautious, citing recent disappointments in the RTS genre. The April 24th release date has been met with mixed reactions – some appreciate the time for polish, while others feel the wait is too long.
Pre-release streams and developer Q&A sessions have helped maintain interest, with community wishlists focusing on multiplayer features and post-launch support plans.
Community and Support
Tempest Rising has built a strong community ahead of its April 24, 2025 release. Players can connect with developers and each other through various channels to get help, share feedback, and stay informed about game updates.
Developer Interactions
Knights Peak developers maintain an active presence on multiple platforms where fans can interact directly with the team. The official Discord server hosts weekly Q&A sessions where players can ask questions about gameplay mechanics, lore, and upcoming features.
Reddit AMAs (Ask Me Anything) have become a popular way for the development team to address community concerns about balancing the Global Defense Force and other factions. These typically occur monthly, with special sessions following major announcements.
The team also maintains an active Twitter/X account where they share development insights, screenshots, and respond to player feedback. Community managers regularly participate in discussions on the Steam forums, creating a direct line between players and developers.
Update and Patch Notes
Knights Peak has committed to transparent communication about game changes through detailed patch notes. These will be posted on:
- The official Tempest Rising website
- Steam community hub
- Discord announcements channel
Pre-release updates focus on balance adjustments between the Global Defense Force and other factions based on playtester feedback. The developers use a color-coded system to highlight major changes, minor tweaks, and bug fixes.
A public roadmap on Trello shows planned updates for the first six months after release. This includes new units, maps, and quality-of-life improvements. Players can vote on which features they want prioritized, giving the community direct input into development decisions.
Customer Service
Knights Peak offers multiple support options for players experiencing technical issues or account problems. The primary support channels include:
Email Support: The dedicated support team aims to respond within 24 hours to all inquiries sent to their help desk.
Knowledge Base: A comprehensive FAQ section on the official website covers common issues and their solutions, from installation problems to gameplay questions about the Global Defense Force faction.
Steam users can access support directly through the platform, with specialized agents familiar with the game’s requirements and common technical issues. For urgent matters, live chat support will be available during business hours once the game launches.
The developers have also created troubleshooting guides specifically for different hardware configurations to help players optimize performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players have many questions about Tempest Rising as its release date approaches. The following answers provide key information about features, editions, and technical aspects of the game.
What new features can players expect in Tempest Rising?
Tempest Rising brings several exciting features to the real-time strategy genre. The game includes three distinct factions with unique play styles and technologies.
Combat mechanics feature destructible environments that change tactical options during battles. The game also incorporates a modern resource management system that balances simplicity with strategic depth.
A comprehensive campaign mode tells the story through high-quality cutscenes and mission-based gameplay. Multiplayer options include competitive matches with skill-based matchmaking.
Are there any pre-order bonuses for Tempest Rising on PC?
Players who pre-order Tempest Rising will receive exclusive in-game cosmetic items. These include special unit skins and base decoration options that won’t be available after launch.
Pre-orders also come with 48-hour early access to the game before the official April 24th release. Some digital retailers are offering a digital art book showcasing concept art and design evolution.
Will there be a special edition of Tempest Rising available for purchase?
A Deluxe Edition of Tempest Rising will be available alongside the standard version. This premium package includes the base game plus the first expansion pack scheduled for release later in 2025.
The Deluxe Edition also contains a digital soundtrack featuring the game’s original music. Purchasers receive exclusive commander portraits and special unit variants for multiplayer matches.
How have the developers ensured balance in the Tempest Rising gameplay?
The development team conducted extensive beta testing with thousands of players to refine game balance. Each faction underwent careful tuning to ensure unique strengths without creating overpowered combinations.
The resource system was designed with multiple pathways to victory. Counters exist for every unit and strategy, preventing dominant meta-strategies from emerging.
Regular balance patches are planned for the months following release. The developers have set up community feedback channels to quickly address any issues that arise.
Is there a roadmap for post-launch updates and content for Tempest Rising?
The development team has outlined a six-month content roadmap following the April 24th launch. The plan includes free monthly updates with balance adjustments and quality-of-life improvements.
Two major expansion packs are scheduled for release in 2025. These will add new factions, campaign missions, and multiplayer maps to the game.
A competitive tournament system will launch two months after release. This will include seasonal rankings and special rewards for top players.
What are the system requirements for running Tempest Rising on a Windows PC?
Tempest Rising requires at minimum a Windows 10 operating system, Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and a GTX 1060 graphics card with 3GB VRAM. The game needs 50GB of storage space for installation.
For the best experience, the developers recommend Windows 11, Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and an RTX 2070 graphics card. A solid-state drive will significantly improve loading times.
The game supports ultrawide monitors and various controller options. Settings can be adjusted to run on lower-spec machines with reduced visual fidelity.
