Ashes of the Singularity II -A Long-Awaited Return for RTS Fans
First released in 2016, Ashes of the Singularity made waves for its massive unit counts and advanced multi-core processor support—something unheard of in RTS at the time. But after its initial success, the series went quiet, leaving a void in the modern RTS space. That changed in August 2025, when developer Oxide Games and publisher Stardock officially announced Ashes of the Singularity II, reigniting excitement across gaming forums.
This sequel isn’t just a continuation—it’s a bold new chapter aimed at pushing RTS into the future.
Larger-Than-Ever Battlefields
Ashes was always known for large-scale warfare, and part two takes that even further. Leveraging new multi-core optimization tech, the game now allows thousands of units on sprawling maps. Every tactical decision matters—from scout positioning to deploying drones or launching massive area-damage superweapons.
Units now have clearly defined roles, and managing your forces will require coordination across multiple fronts. This level of control is exactly what hardcore RTS players crave.
New Campaign, Future Setting, and a Third Faction
Unlike the relatively simple narrative of the first game, Ashes II introduces a more complete single-player campaign set in 2031. As humanity battles two powerful post-human AI empires—the PHC and Substrate—a new human faction rises to reclaim Earth’s legacy.
This long-requested human faction brings an entirely new playstyle focused on mobility, guerrilla tactics, and organic weaponry. Instead of robots and drones, expect infantry squads, armored vehicles, and biotech-based warfare. This shift in design promises more varied combat encounters and meaningful strategic adaptation.
Modes for Everyone: Solo, Co-op, and Competitive
Beyond the campaign, Ashes II includes full-featured multiplayer, both cooperative and PvP. Players can team up against AI or face off in large-scale tactical showdowns where map control, timing, and team coordination are key.
Base-building has been redesigned to offer deeper strategic options. You’ll have to plan your layouts carefully, balance energy and resource flow, and protect against flanking maneuvers. Every structure placement matters.
The AI, too, has been overhauled—it now analyzes weak points, probes defenses, and counters strategies more intelligently. Even solo players can expect real tactical challenges.
Graphics Engine Upgraded for the Modern Era
Powered by the revamped Nitrous Engine, Ashes II makes full use of modern CPUs and GPUs to deliver smooth performance even during enormous battles. Dynamic lighting, physics-based effects, and real-time terrain deformation make each battlefield feel alive.
Visually, environments range from sunlit grasslands and mountain passes to barren off-world planets. Combined with immersive sound design and voice acting, the presentation aims to draw players deep into every fight.
Coming in 2026, Built With the Community in Mind
Ashes of the Singularity II is now available to wishlist on Steam, with a planned release in 2026—marking the 10th anniversary of the original game. The development team has promised regular updates, open beta tests, and direct community feedback throughout the final stages of development.
AOTSI II is more than just a sequel—it’s a statement of intent. With massive battles, improved AI, deep systems, and modern graphics tech, it’s shaping up to be one of the most ambitious RTS games in years.
If you’ve ever loved titles like StarCraft, Supreme Commander, or Company of Heroes, Ashes of the Singularity II may be your next great strategy obsession.