What is StarCraft II?
StarCraft II is the ultimate competitive real-time strategy game, and the sequel to the hit original, StarCraft. The game will include three completely distinct and balanced races, the protoss, terran, and zerg, which have been overhauled and re-imagined with a number of new units for each, as well as new tricks for some of the classic units that are returning.
When is the game coming out?
At this point, it's too early to provide an estimate of the release date. As with all Blizzard games, we will take as much time as needed to ensure the game is as fun, balanced, and polished as possible.
How will StarCraft II be different from StarCraft?
StarCraft II will run on a vibrant new 3D-graphics engine capable of rendering beautiful landscapes as well as massive army sizes. The speed, responsiveness, and epic-scale battles that made the original StarCraft such a memorable game are all realized in 3D with this brand-new engine.
We're also introducing a number of distinct new units to the protoss, terran, and zerg, and some of the familiar units that return in StarCraft II will have new tricks up their sleeves, which will give the game its own unique flavor. The maps themselves will also offer new interactive elements that enhance the strategic nature of the game and create more tactical points of interest for players to contest. One example of this is the Xel'Naga watchtower structure—when captured, it reveals line of sight over a large area of the map, creating an advantage for the player in control of the tower.
In addition, Battle.net will be overhauled with some new and exciting features to enhance online play and competition, while the single-player campaign will also offer some unique aspects for players to enjoy.
How many cinematic cut-scenes will be included?
We know that StarCraft II players will expect to see some Blizzard-quality cinematic content in the game, and we have definite plans to include multiple pre-rendered cinematics, starting with the intro movie. StarCraft II's advanced 3D engine also allows us to create numerous in-engine cutscenes to help tell the game's epic story. The Blizzard cinematics team is working closely with the StarCraft II development team to ensure that these in-engine cutscenes are as enjoyable and compelling to watch as the pre-rendered cinematic scenes.
How many races are in StarCraft II?
In StarCraft II, players will see the return of the protoss, terran, and zerg races. Our goal is to ensure that all the factions in the game play even more distinctly from one another than in the original StarCraft, while still maintaining the fine balance that helped make StarCraft a classic. We're also introducing a number of new units to each race, as well as modifying some of the familiar units returning in StarCraft II. With these design refinements and the new features we have planned for the single-player and multiplayer elements of the game, StarCraft II will offer a next-generation StarCraft experience.
Can you give some examples of the newest changes that you've put into the BlizzCon 2008 build of StarCraft II?
We're trying out some cool new mechanics, such as giving zerg ground units a movement speed bonus whenever they're on creep, the slimy base upon which the zerg create their structures. We've also made some changes to the protoss mothership. A new ability called vortex allows it to trap a group of units, rendering them unable to move or attack until the effect ends. The terran aircraft previously called the nomad is now called the nighthawk. It's gotten a visual facelift with an all-new unit model and a brand-new ability called “seismic thumper,” which slows nearby enemies and prevents zerg from burrowing. One thing to keep in mind is that we're trying out new mechanics and abilities all the time, so what you see here at BlizzCon is just a snapshot of where we're at right now and is all still subject to change.
It seems like there are sweeping balance changes almost every time I read about StarCraft II. What are the reasons for the changes?
As we go through various testing stages, the development team experiments a lot with the game balance. This can include adding, removing, and/or modifying various units, buildings, and special abilities within the game. Frequent changes to units and abilities are a natural part of our iterative development process as we strive to make StarCraft II as balanced and fun as possible.
What can you reveal about StarCraft II's single-player component?
The game's plot will pick up several years after the events of StarCraft: Brood War. Familiar faces will return—such as Jim Raynor, the reluctant terran hero from the original StarCraft—and new heroes and villains will emerge. The single-player campaign will allow players to interact closely with these characters while determining their own course through the game via mission choices and technology upgrades.
Download link:
Starcraft 2 Fan Site Kit.zip
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