I'm sure I would like RTS games if there was something I could play on a small scale first. I like turn-based games like Advance Wars, and my only problem with RTSs is that they throw you in at the deep end with hundreds of units to manage, lots of keyboard shortcuts and resource collecting (I own Supreme Commander and suck at it).

Are there any simple freeware RTSs I can try? Ideally well designed, not a random Flash game. One other thing is that I can't make myself play anything set in 'historic'/'fantasy' times. So it should be modern or sci-fi.

Just days ago a friend of mine was talking about Spring, but I have not personally tried it. I understand that it has a common engine and then various gametypes/skins/settings are implemented. Since there are various settings maybe you can find one that you like?

It is amazing how well your collection holds up under scrutiny here - especially knowing that you don't really like Zelda.

Unfortunately I can't really recommend anything to you - all I have is a freeware turn-based game, and it is unfortunately medieval-esque Tolkien-style fantasy.

I looked at Spring, and it it is a remake of Total Annihilation (which Supreme Commander was also based off of) for hardcore fans who didn't think the game had enough options (you see my problem? All RTSs on the market are competing to be the most complicated and diffcult). For it to be playable you also need to own a copy of TA...

"It is amazing how well your collection holds up under scrutiny here - especially knowing that you don't really like Zelda.

Unfortunately I can't really recommend anything to you - all I have is a freeware turn-based game, and it is unfortunately medieval-esque Tolkien-style fantasy."

Yeah. I have bought or tried most of the Zelda games, and if they reskinned every piece of artwork and dialogue with Metroid-esque sci-fi (retaining the gameplay) I would like it. As it is... I can't get motivated to go past the first dungeon on any of the Zeldas I own. I can't really explain why.

U should learn to appreciate the historical and fantasy settings Soleron. They're the best.

Try some Age of Empires II for RTS and Oblivion for RPG and U've got a taste of truly epic games.

Galcon is a lot of of fun for a very simple RTS.

You can get a free version of it (browser based) at www.InstantAction.com

It has multiplayer, and single player modes. Very neat game, and I highly recommend it.