Glest is an entirely free real time strategy game and a 3D strategy game production engine. In this free RTS game, players take control of armies based on one of two factions: the Tech faction, which uses warriors and mechanical devices, or the Magic faction, which employs mages and summoned creatures. These armies are pitted against one another in exciting, action-packed battles. The game's customizable features, combined with its solid gameplay mechanics, offer a fun and engaging experience for strategy enthusiasts.

Glest: One of the Best Free Real Time Strategy Games

Glest is a completely free, portable real time strategy (RTS) game set in a fantastical world. The game allows players to choose between two distinct factions—the Tech and the Magic—each offering unique units, structures, and strategic possibilities.

One of the standout features of Glest is its impressive use of OpenGL for 3D effects. These effects enhance the overall visual appeal of the game, making it more immersive and enjoyable. Additionally, it is highly customizable, thanks to its use of XML files and a suite of modding tools. Players can modify the game to suit their preferences, whether it's tweaking unit stats, changing graphics, or even adding new content. This flexibility has led to the creation of many mods, expanding upon its playability.

Key Features of Glest

Two Unique Factions: Glest offers two factions to choose from. The Tech faction focuses on warriors and mechanical units, while the Magic faction relies on mages, mystical creatures, and spells. Each faction provides a different style of gameplay, offering players the opportunity to develop diverse strategies on the battlefield.
Resource Management: Players must manage resources like wood, gold, and stone to build their bases and units. Effective resource management is essential to expand your army, build advanced structures, and stay competitive in battle.
Diverse Unit Types: Both factions come with a wide range of unit types, each with its own abilities and roles. Tech units include foot soldiers and mechanical constructs, while Magic units include spell-casting mages and summoned creatures, offering plenty of strategic depth.
Open Source and Modding Support: As an open source game, it allows the community to modify and enhance it. Numerous mods have been developed by the community, introducing new factions, maps, and gameplay features. This makes it a highly adaptable game, perfect for players who enjoy customized experiences.
Multiplayer Mode: Includes a multiplayer mode, allowing players to face off against each other in real-time battles. This adds an exciting dynamic to the game as players need to adapt to human opponents, who bring varied strategies and approaches to the battlefield.

How to Make Glest a Portable RTS Game

Download the Make Glest Portable script and run it to create a portable folder.
Download Glest and move the installation file (glest_3.2.2.exe) to the created folder.
Run the MakePortable.bat file from the folder and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
Once complete, you can run Glest directly from your USB drive by clicking on glest.exe.

That's really all there is to it. 😉

Additional Specifications

Extracted File Size: 113 MB
Author’s Website: Official Project Page
License: Open Source
First Release Date: 2004
Supported Operating Systems: Windows 11, 10, 8, 7
Price: Free
Application Category: Utilities, Real Time Strategy Game
Editor's Rating: 4 Stars

If you enjoy this free RTS game, you might also want to explore WarZone 2100. WarZone 2100 is another one of the best free real-time strategy games that shares similarities with the popular Command and Conquer series but is also portable. We've reviewed it as one of the best free RTS games that can be run from a USB drive without installation, making it an excellent choice for gamers on the go.