Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty

 PC
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 3772 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,975 out of 3772
  2. Mixed: 410 out of 3772
  3. Negative: 387 out of 3772
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  1. Zelosfan
    Jul 1, 2012
    10
    This game is a worthy sequel. The perfectly fitting graphic adds up to the skill based game-play.
    The user base is very mature and rounds up the beautiful experience this competitive game creates.
  2. Bobbo
    Jun 21, 2012
    6
    I want to enjoy and savor the moment when playing an RTS, not click like a madman in some pointless E-sports game. Battlenet 2 is designed around E-sports where every online game is on super-fast speed and nobody cares about having fun, just moving up on some pointless E-sports ladder.
  3. jamvaru
    Jun 16, 2012
    0
    if you can get past the blizzard fanboy lovefest that people have who are blinded by their brand of bull...
    ...then maybe you made it here where the reviews are a bit more critical
    I am happy to see the 3/5 rating on Amazon.com, as that is what I gave it on ebay, where it has a 4.5/5 rating, of course (they think they are reviewing the seller, generally, lol this game is the same as    if you can get past the blizzard fanboy lovefest that people have who are blinded by their brand of bull...
    ...then maybe you made it here where the reviews are a bit more critical
    I am happy to see the 3/5 rating on Amazon.com, as that is what I gave it on ebay, where it has a 4.5/5 rating, of course (they think they are reviewing the seller, generally, lol

    this game is the same as the 1999 game, except for better graphics, and a few interface improvements, like being able to control more than 8 units at a time
    the gameplay boils down to a sort of machine like formula that takes about 5 minutes to pull off; so for 5 minutes you are basically jerking off, then you shoot your load at the 'enemy' and hope they don't shoot you first, or whatever... possibly the game goes beyond 10 minutes, but basically it is the loser refusing to quit while the winner has to chase them down to kill their last building;

    if you don't win in the first 5 minutes, you lose

    that is all

    lol, stupid blizzard, stick to wow, quit milking your oldschool bs (have you SEEN the new diablo? lol)

    ;}    … Expand
  4. ZuberM
    Jun 15, 2012
    10
    I am extremely stunned to read some of the user reviews on this site. This game is quite possibly one of the best if not the best game ever made. A lot of you complain about the story, it may have its holes yes, but the fundamental aspect of Starcraft 2 is its multiplayer. It is unmatched in the RTS genre and you cant put any other RTS infront of it. Ive played tons and tons of other RTSI am extremely stunned to read some of the user reviews on this site. This game is quite possibly one of the best if not the best game ever made. A lot of you complain about the story, it may have its holes yes, but the fundamental aspect of Starcraft 2 is its multiplayer. It is unmatched in the RTS genre and you cant put any other RTS infront of it. Ive played tons and tons of other RTS and I did not find love.. at all. When I played the original Starcraft I was bewildered with being able to play with 3 races with unlimited possibilities,strategies and mental focus. This game LIVES online, South Korea has declared it a national sport and Starcraft players are currently the highest paid professional gamers. I cannot begin to describe to you the amount of strategy and techniques it takes to beat your opponent 1v1. You cant get sick of this game honestly. 10/10 score for this game Thank you critics for agreeing with me!… Expand
  5. gruese
    Jun 13, 2012
    9
    A truly great game that still suffers from a few shortcomings. First off, Starcraft 2 is no doubt one of the most competitive multiplayer games ever. Blizzard supports this with good matchmaking and a ladder system that I have no qualms about. Due to the great editor that comes with the game, the community is heavily involved in making maps and custom games, and I have probably spent asA truly great game that still suffers from a few shortcomings. First off, Starcraft 2 is no doubt one of the most competitive multiplayer games ever. Blizzard supports this with good matchmaking and a ladder system that I have no qualms about. Due to the great editor that comes with the game, the community is heavily involved in making maps and custom games, and I have probably spent as much time playing fan-made content as I have playing content made by Blizzard. Although there is much arguing going on about this, my personal opinion is that the three races are very well balanced while being almost completely different. If the game was exclusively multiplayer, I think it might be close to perfect. I have rated it 9 out of 10 points because of the single player experience, which I found enjoyable overall, but the characters and the story are just a little bit too cheesy and stereotypical. All in all though, my money was very well spent on Starcraft II and I am looking forward to the expansion sets.… Expand
  6. killzon32
    Jun 11, 2012
    9
    One or if not the best rts games of this generation and will be so for a very long time.
    The story is pretty good single player is fun, Online is where it shines being one of the most competitive games of Esport's. This is the Juggernaut of Esport's.
  7. robindrew
    Jun 10, 2012
    10
    This is a remake of Starcraft pure and simple. I can appreciate those who were expecting something radically different would be disappointed. It is a remake, and a fantastic remake it is. The balance of the 3 races is exceptional, refined over numerous patches. As with all blizzard games, the attention to detail is exceptional and the visuals are breathtaking. The campaign is an acceptableThis is a remake of Starcraft pure and simple. I can appreciate those who were expecting something radically different would be disappointed. It is a remake, and a fantastic remake it is. The balance of the 3 races is exceptional, refined over numerous patches. As with all blizzard games, the attention to detail is exceptional and the visuals are breathtaking. The campaign is an acceptable length, but not overly long. However, the multiplayer is something else entirely, with arguably the best multiplayer experience of any strategy game to date. If you enjoy real time strategy games with resource management, there is nothing better.… Expand
  8. Militaizi
    Jun 9, 2012
    10
    Starcraft 2: Wings of Liberty is the best 'Real-time strategy' ever made. It doesn't need to be explained. The singleplayer is cool, it's shifty and it gives many different style of maps, in one map you are running from the zerg, in other you are battling the protoss, and vice versa. The multiplayer is the focus of the game, it can be seen from far. Blizzard is still making updates to keepStarcraft 2: Wings of Liberty is the best 'Real-time strategy' ever made. It doesn't need to be explained. The singleplayer is cool, it's shifty and it gives many different style of maps, in one map you are running from the zerg, in other you are battling the protoss, and vice versa. The multiplayer is the focus of the game, it can be seen from far. Blizzard is still making updates to keep the races balanced, the custom games are fun, and the arcade thingy will put the custom gaming into new dimensions.… Expand
  9. jim109109
    May 31, 2012
    6
    This is Blizzard's first epically disappointing game, in its plunge to activision mediocrity. It's a remake of starcraft 1 with better graphics. The custom map system is horrible because of the "popularity" system, so if you invent a map you will never be able to play it with anyone because it isn't popular. If you aren't a map maker and just want to play maps, you 'll play the same 20This is Blizzard's first epically disappointing game, in its plunge to activision mediocrity. It's a remake of starcraft 1 with better graphics. The custom map system is horrible because of the "popularity" system, so if you invent a map you will never be able to play it with anyone because it isn't popular. If you aren't a map maker and just want to play maps, you 'll play the same 20 over and over, because the system kills creativity. It feels like Blizzard itself is now enemy to creativity, it's a big ball-less, slow, boring company which issues remakes and cashes in money. Warcraft III was superior in every way, ten years earlier.… Expand
  10. Daisai
    May 29, 2012
    5
    Starcraft 2 basicly is a typical Blizzard game with the same rock paper scissor mechanics we know from games like World of Warcraft.
    Its their way in making a balance in games and they seem to be succesfull in it.
    Gameplay however does make it very boring, basicly you need to counter the counter that counters you because you counter that which you counter and counter a bit more, if you    Starcraft 2 basicly is a typical Blizzard game with the same rock paper scissor mechanics we know from games like World of Warcraft.
    Its their way in making a balance in games and they seem to be succesfull in it.
    Gameplay however does make it very boring, basicly you need to counter the counter that counters you because you counter that which you counter and counter a bit more, if you understand what im trying to say.
    Bit like rock counters scissors then paper counters rock and and scissors counters paper.
    Graphics are pretty pathetic for a 2012 game which such a budget, outdated even.
    They really could have done alot better on the graphics with this game, at least for single player, they are just not up to par with current games.

    So this game scores a bit in between, it has decent gameplay if you are into the "rock paper scissor" mechanics blizzard is known for.
    However if you are looking for a game with graphics you can expect from a developer of this level then Starcraft 2 isnt your game.

    The only reason why Starcraft 2 is a succes is the huge esport community around it, so basicly living of its succes of the first version.
    Bit like what the same company Blizzard is doing with Diablo.    … Expand
  11. ColdHardTruth
    May 26, 2012
    8
    Starcraft 2 is a refreshing sequel with tons of action to enjoy! To start Blizzard this time added relationships between the main characters which is fun to follow. I personally like all the new units in the game and new features to go with (example: Thor unit which is like a Mech Warrior and more variety of flying units for all races). If your a strategy action fan you'll love the newStarcraft 2 is a refreshing sequel with tons of action to enjoy! To start Blizzard this time added relationships between the main characters which is fun to follow. I personally like all the new units in the game and new features to go with (example: Thor unit which is like a Mech Warrior and more variety of flying units for all races). If your a strategy action fan you'll love the new take. Blizzard also added some roll playing elements to the game. You can select which mission to do next, interact with objects on your ship and talk to your crew on your ship between missions. The ship your stationed on has 4 sections to browse through (lab, armory, lounge and control room). You can upgrade your units, hire mercenaries, and even upgrade your overall tech while on your ship between missions. There is the main story and side missions where you gain funds to improve your force. The interface of the game has similar characteristics as its previous predecessor. Simple controls makes for a fun experience and 5 different difficulties for everyone to try. While I didn't experience multi-player this time I know that Battle.net is world class for gamers. The only reason why I didn't give Starcraft 2 a 9 or better is because personally I don't like all the timed missions (race against time to complete goals). This doesn't mean that those specific missions didn't have same excitement. But for me the frustration was sometime at its peak. That's the only major negative I can report at this time. There is some reputation, but that is said for most things in life. Reputation is not always bad especially when it's a Blizzard created game.This one is a buy. Enjoy this one!… Expand
  12. sunsun
    May 25, 2012
    7
    I like starcraft more than starcraft II. Maybe it's because SC2 is just nearly the same as SC1 except the graphic and the story line.

    I would rate higher if it has new classes , not only zerg, zealot and terran.
  13. crunchor
    May 24, 2012
    10
    Comparing to Diablo 3, Starcraft 2 is a much better and complete game. Starcraft 2 really continue the legend of Starcraft with so many updates and new things to make it an even better game. Diablo 3 has been released and I had spend sometimes on it, but Diablo 3 is a serous disappointment and it is the worst game ever while people wrongly believe it is good just because of wonderfulComparing to Diablo 3, Starcraft 2 is a much better and complete game. Starcraft 2 really continue the legend of Starcraft with so many updates and new things to make it an even better game. Diablo 3 has been released and I had spend sometimes on it, but Diablo 3 is a serous disappointment and it is the worst game ever while people wrongly believe it is good just because of wonderful marketing. I really enjoy the marketing of Diablo 3 with so many advertisements and events to make people feel like Diablo 3 is the best game ever but everyone fall into this marketing trap. Just look at this, starcraft 2 has 8.1 points user reviews points while Diablo 3 only has 4.1 now. 8.1 is almost double of 4.1 while 10 is the upper limit. Everything in Starcraft 2 is well designed and you can just feel it after playing it. I am sure the team who makes starcraft 2 is not the same team as Diablo 3, because anyone can just feel Diablo 3 is not even close to complete, Diablo 3 is just a beta of a demo, the design team doesn't even try to make it longer and create a game system which can last for long. People can play Starcraft 2 for 10 years and still find it is even more fun with crazy many patches. I download and install starcraft 2 patches with at least 30 minutes, that is a lot of patches just like Windows 7 itself. I played Diablo 3 for like 30 minutes then already feel it is so boring. It is just stupid to ask for Diablo 3 players to just play the exact same game again after finish the game once. Graphic of Starcraft 2 is actually much better than Diablo 3 even starcraft 2 is made 2 years ago. Anyway Diablo 3 is a pixxx of shxx while starcraft 2 is the best of its kind. Don't buy the crazy expensive but horrible quality Diablo 3 just because of its marketing effect, make the right choice.… Expand
  14. selenta
    May 23, 2012
    9
    I wasn't that excited for this game when it first came out, I expected to play the single player and maybe a few coop games with friends and be done with it. I've now been playing it for over a year, and I still play it regularly. I probably watch more than I play these days, which is certainly a first for me with any game, in a good way.
  15. MagicHAT
    May 20, 2012
    0
    This "story" of Starcraft 2 is butcher with hollywood-cowboys in space- kind of feel I can use up all 5000 characters and I did on my native language but in english I will just say that this game hurt my feelings I loved StarCraft 1 and Broodwar but this "Starcraft II Rednecks in Space" is huge dissapoitment, Multiplayer is somewhat fun to watch on youtube but to play its just to muchThis "story" of Starcraft 2 is butcher with hollywood-cowboys in space- kind of feel I can use up all 5000 characters and I did on my native language but in english I will just say that this game hurt my feelings I loved StarCraft 1 and Broodwar but this "Starcraft II Rednecks in Space" is huge dissapoitment, Multiplayer is somewhat fun to watch on youtube but to play its just to much hollywood for me big downgrade Fun - 1/10
    Gameplay - 7/10
    Controls - 9/10
    Graphics Design - 1/10
    Story - 0/10
    All Time Graphics - 9/10
    Sound - 3/10
    Music - 0/10
    Replayability - 0/10
    Graphics for its time - 9/10
    39/100    … Expand
  16. LazyGamerATN
    May 20, 2012
    10
    This game is amazing. what other game, of any genre, has this level of replayability? A campaign that is varied, addictive, has a great story and characters, as well as being long without becoming tedious or boring, on top of being challenging. The multiplayer is challenging, but it is so accessible to new players (such as myself when I bought it), and the ranking system is one of the mostThis game is amazing. what other game, of any genre, has this level of replayability? A campaign that is varied, addictive, has a great story and characters, as well as being long without becoming tedious or boring, on top of being challenging. The multiplayer is challenging, but it is so accessible to new players (such as myself when I bought it), and the ranking system is one of the most efficient ones I've ever encountered. On top of all this, there is the map editor and custom games section, which has SSOOOOOOO much content that it is essentially giving you 100 games in 1 (people have even recreated the SC1 campaign with the editor). All in all, one of the greatest game sI have ever played, and don't judge it for taking 12 years to make: it's here, and it's a great game. Would you prefer a game that took 2 years to make, like say, Call of Duty? I thought not.… Expand
  17. wuwei
    May 18, 2012
    10
    Simply the smoothest, most balanced RTS game since the first Starcraft. Those that complain about graphics or story, no serious SC player has ever cared about those things. Good players play with lowest graphic settings just to reduce framelag.
  18. MistoRennies
    May 15, 2012
    10
    This is the best game known to man! i play this game as much as possible and once i started playing SC2 i just couldn't play any other game. I highly recommend this beautiful game but SC2 heart of the swarm is coming out soon this fall you might wanna wait for it, WARNING THIS GAME IS HIGHLY ADDICTIVE! IT IS THE BEST GAME I HAVE EVER PLAYED IN MY ENTIRE LIFE!!!
  19. LordOFdestructN
    May 15, 2012
    0
    Huge disappointment, bad graphics, boring gameplay. activision blizzard killed developer we all knew and loved. go to hell bob kotick. The game is cheap, the game story is abomination to original.
  20. NGResonanceFan
    May 12, 2012
    3
    Lo, how the mighty have fallen. I was a huge original Starcraft/Brood War fan and wanted to love SC2. What a major disappointment it was though, and in no way worth the long wait. Rather than repeat in full what the other detractors have noted, I would just say that what bothered me the most were how little gameplay had improved since the original Starcraft, and how awful the storyLo, how the mighty have fallen. I was a huge original Starcraft/Brood War fan and wanted to love SC2. What a major disappointment it was though, and in no way worth the long wait. Rather than repeat in full what the other detractors have noted, I would just say that what bothered me the most were how little gameplay had improved since the original Starcraft, and how awful the story was. It was like some cheesy action-adventure movie, and inventing that whole Tychus Findlay backstory was incredibly lame. It's very sad really. Back in the day when Blizzard was small they were innovative and seemed to respect their fans. The fame and success obviously went to their heads though, and big money translated into big egos and accountants, and as a result SC2 was nothing more than a sop for the masses.… Expand
  21. Krepost
    May 7, 2012
    9
    The epitome of all strategy games. The rush of the online gaming experience is unmatched in any other game period. The community is awesome. The graphics are awesome. The balance is awesome. If you even think you might like RTS games a little bit, shell out the money for this game. It never gets old, and never loses its shine. The trouble is that SC2 has a 90 degree angle learning curve,The epitome of all strategy games. The rush of the online gaming experience is unmatched in any other game period. The community is awesome. The graphics are awesome. The balance is awesome. If you even think you might like RTS games a little bit, shell out the money for this game. It never gets old, and never loses its shine. The trouble is that SC2 has a 90 degree angle learning curve, it takes a very long time to become good at it, so don't expect to be a pro in a week, if you want to become an expert, it will take time, or you can just be like me and fool around in team games in the gold league, nice and casual. There's a niche for everyone here, so I would say go and grab the game. It's awesome.… Expand
  22. SaH
    Apr 30, 2012
    10
    I was wondering, how high can I rate SC2. And the answer is one. It's one of the best game I played, with great emotions and fun during multiplayer game. Single player give some more less fun, but we must remember, that it's only a tutorial for multiplayer. Story is not so great as in SC1, but it is only Terran part, lets wait for more... And game? Fun, music, even graphic (for some pplI was wondering, how high can I rate SC2. And the answer is one. It's one of the best game I played, with great emotions and fun during multiplayer game. Single player give some more less fun, but we must remember, that it's only a tutorial for multiplayer. Story is not so great as in SC1, but it is only Terran part, lets wait for more... And game? Fun, music, even graphic (for some ppl outdated) - everything do the job, and game, as a whole is just great. There aren't much games, that make me sit against monitor for couple of months, and SC2 did it.… Expand
  23. Mogul
    Apr 22, 2012
    6
    This game is good, and kind of fun, but it didn't really seem special to me. It felt very outdated and required way too much micromanaging for my taste, and everything was a bit more stressful than fun. I can see why people enjoy this game, but for my part, I actual like watching Starcraft II competitive matches on youtube much more than I like playing the game myself.
  24. Coeco
    Apr 11, 2012
    4
    Outdated graphics, some overly-simplified HUD controls so basic that average gamers can't figure, a game-play made to satisfy competitive game in Korea with a huge demand on micro-management causing actual stress in order to gain the upper hand, lag and hamstring of the custom games functions (Only prompting people to play the most popular ones which involve generic Tower Defense and otherOutdated graphics, some overly-simplified HUD controls so basic that average gamers can't figure, a game-play made to satisfy competitive game in Korea with a huge demand on micro-management causing actual stress in order to gain the upper hand, lag and hamstring of the custom games functions (Only prompting people to play the most popular ones which involve generic Tower Defense and other re-re-replayed junk) and you'll get Starcraft II. It's like eating a really tasty looking eye-appeal pie that has no filling besides the bread crusts for anyone that isn't Korean along with the beautiful cinematics accompanied by some silly storyline.… Expand
  25. DarthMang
    Apr 2, 2012
    10
    It takes everything you loved about Starcraft and makes it bigger, better, and more beautiful. The most notable addition, though, is the campaign. Instead of upgrading on a mission to mission basis, between missions you are essentially playing a point and click adventure that not only looks beautiful, but allows you to get additional information on the story, but it is from here that youIt takes everything you loved about Starcraft and makes it bigger, better, and more beautiful. The most notable addition, though, is the campaign. Instead of upgrading on a mission to mission basis, between missions you are essentially playing a point and click adventure that not only looks beautiful, but allows you to get additional information on the story, but it is from here that you can upgrade your arsenal and it stays with you throughout each mission. At first I was upset about only getting the Terran campaign with this single game, but the 30 missions and the promise of at least two more equally large expansions more than makes up for it when they are this good.… Expand
  26. Ccx55
    Mar 20, 2012
    0
    Is this game made by experimental college students? This is just plain sad.
    Not a single improvement over Brood War - nothing worth noting atleast.
    This is just far behind our time.
  27. billtheturnip
    Mar 7, 2012
    8
    Most of the problems I have with this game are the way that Blizzard implements patches and fixes. It is an amazing game and the mini games that you can find on the custom game list are worth the price of this game by themselves. I would pay money to play nexus wars as a stand alone game. SC2 may not be for everyone, but it is an amazing game none the less.
  28. Ideclarewar901
    Mar 7, 2012
    8
    Very good game! Since the First Warcraft, Starcraft also, these two games has been my favourite Strategy Games. There is also games like Warhammer, which are good Strat games.. The Starcraft Lore was awesome, and they did not break it with Starcraft II. I think it stays true to what was originally being Starcraft, the new Units are awesome! Atleast for Terrans! (As we did not see much ofVery good game! Since the First Warcraft, Starcraft also, these two games has been my favourite Strategy Games. There is also games like Warhammer, which are good Strat games.. The Starcraft Lore was awesome, and they did not break it with Starcraft II. I think it stays true to what was originally being Starcraft, the new Units are awesome! Atleast for Terrans! (As we did not see much of Zerg/Protoss yet.). The Campaign is wonderful! Can take a LONG time to get done when you are Legitly playing it! As for Multiplayer, it is incredibly HARD! Players are good, some players are offensive, but that is what are Kids. The game overall would have a 8/10 for me, because the Game is not yet complete. Still missing PROTOSS, ZERG campaigns, and i want to wait to see how much more i will give this game, i think Blizzard did not fail their Starcraft Franchise. Thanks Blizzard, as always, Quality game made. Thanks for taking the time to create quality games, and not listening to people telling you to rush them. Blizzard is one of my favourite Game Developpers including EA Games. Thanks!… Expand
  29. Boltwork
    Mar 6, 2012
    9
    Very highly enjoyable. Even at low levels of play, each match is an intense battle of wits and speed. Not much needs to be said about the actual gameplay itself. One thing that still stands out to me to this day is just how clean and well developed the UI and controls are. It makes playing the game a pleasure.
  30. ChoicestGames
    Mar 3, 2012
    9
    Blizzard have taken the usual "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" approach and even though the graphics and gameplay haven't changed much, the epic and immersive sci-fi story more than makes up for it. Bring on the expansions (hopefully at a decent price)!
  31. Kosheus
    Feb 28, 2012
    9
    Technically the best classic RTS now. Best custom game platform too.
    But it lacks SC1 atmosphere=(. Also there is very stupid campain (storywise) with very interesting (IMHO) custommaps-like missions.
    Anyway, this is the state of art classic RTS.
  32. Mr_Critic
    Feb 24, 2012
    10
    Sometimes a few simple words can describe what u think about something better than a thousand words. In Starcraft II it's the case: This game is released since late 2010. We have 2012 now and i still play this game every second day. What better compliment can a game get?
  33. whitespider999
    Feb 16, 2012
    7
    Blizzard is quite good at getting something that worked, and then tweaking it into something slightly evolved in the best way possible. You either like this incremental approach, or you don't. I don't. However me simply saying I don't like this games approach to evolution and then slapping a 0 on it, is exactly the kind of critic I don't want to be. Besides, I am a huge fan of diablo 2 -Blizzard is quite good at getting something that worked, and then tweaking it into something slightly evolved in the best way possible. You either like this incremental approach, or you don't. I don't. However me simply saying I don't like this games approach to evolution and then slapping a 0 on it, is exactly the kind of critic I don't want to be. Besides, I am a huge fan of diablo 2 - and while I know that they will do the same thing they did with starcraft II - for diablo 3. I am fine with that. So it would be a double standard to simply dismiss starcraft 2 because A: It's a genre that I don't prefer. and B: Because it's incremental, when that's exactly what I want from the genre I DO prefer. (Action rpg).

    So in that light. Starcraft 2 is reccomended for people who enjoy two things, a well balanced and tightly playing rts, and a superb online competitive mode. And while the story is well presented, well written, and relatively engaging. It's not the long term highlight of this package. Frequent online play is. If you do end up enjoying this game competitively - This is a 10. I enjoyed playing singleplayer, and since I am not a competitive person - I did not enjoy the hardcore requirements or thought processes of multiplayer. So I judge the part I can judge. And it's a 8.    … Expand
  34. IHaveaBiggerPen
    Feb 11, 2012
    0
    I'm dissapointed that zero is the minimum, because I would have given this game -19 out of 0.00001. I played the single player and completed it, but it didn't prepare me for the **** that is it's online, specifically, the Starjeweled official mod. I used to be part of the Starjeweled pro scene, before it got infested by people who don't know how to play seriously. Now, it's all roachI'm dissapointed that zero is the minimum, because I would have given this game -19 out of 0.00001. I played the single player and completed it, but it didn't prepare me for the **** that is it's online, specifically, the Starjeweled official mod. I used to be part of the Starjeweled pro scene, before it got infested by people who don't know how to play seriously. Now, it's all roach cheese tactics, and lucky combos. I keep waiting for a patch to fix this, but Blizzard seems to have forgotten all about the Starjeweled community. Giving a zero until they learn from their mistakes.… Expand
  35. MercilessMonkey
    Feb 11, 2012
    8
    Fairly obviously the best RTS out there at the moment, especially in a competitive context. Campaign is good as to be expected from blizz, gameplay is fun and polished. The only knock would be for their constant failure to balance the game in a reasonable time frame.
  36. dc42
    Feb 10, 2012
    4
    After hearing so much praise for the Starcraft series, I decided to pick it up. Turns out, all the praise seems to have been merely hype generated by Starcraft fans. Now the game is good, but no to the degree of hype given. The overall graphics are alright but remind me too much of previous generation games. Cut scenes are well rendered and look amazing but the gameplay graphics areAfter hearing so much praise for the Starcraft series, I decided to pick it up. Turns out, all the praise seems to have been merely hype generated by Starcraft fans. Now the game is good, but no to the degree of hype given. The overall graphics are alright but remind me too much of previous generation games. Cut scenes are well rendered and look amazing but the gameplay graphics are lacking. Still a decent game and worth checking out if your a RTS fan but don't fall into the "hype trap" generated by overzealous fans.… Expand
  37. appabend
    Feb 10, 2012
    8
    STARCRAFT II: Where do I start? Oh, I'm reviewing this game before the next expansion came out. I think when you really love the original StarCraft, then this one is a great recommendation. I'm not a big fan of RTS genre, but I do love some of their games like AoE, Rise of Nations, Empire Earth, and now this. StarCraft II is one of the best modern RTS game. Well, there are some RTS gamesSTARCRAFT II: Where do I start? Oh, I'm reviewing this game before the next expansion came out. I think when you really love the original StarCraft, then this one is a great recommendation. I'm not a big fan of RTS genre, but I do love some of their games like AoE, Rise of Nations, Empire Earth, and now this. StarCraft II is one of the best modern RTS game. Well, there are some RTS games that can top up StarCraft II, but it's great on it's own. All the things that I have to note are probably the most awesome cut scenes on a Real Time Strategy game, realistic graphics and sound effects with great music too, great voice acting, and most importantly, great gameplay. Maybe because I'm not a big fan of the genre, I can't enjoy the game that much. So far, I haven't tried multiplayer yet probably because I played this game on my Uncle's PC.… Expand
  38. Miheil
    Feb 1, 2012
    9
    This is NOT just Starcraft with better graphics.
    Blizzard spent the time to innovate new units and making old units better. A great new gameplay from Brood war.
    Only let down is the slight imbalanced between the races in which Blizzard has fixed up quite a bit.
    Hopefully HOTS will fixed up the balanced issues.
    The story line of this game is also very intriguing if not a bit cliche at times.
  39. namDa65
    Jan 31, 2012
    9
    Warcraft 3, and Starcraft 1. Starcraft 2 surpasses both in every aspect from the campaign to the balanced multiplayer to map editing tools. The amount of custom game types that can come out of the custom map tools is simply staggering. One can lose thousands of hours in this iteration of starcraft. Buy it if you are a true pc gamer!
  40. Suchweirdguy
    Jan 30, 2012
    10
    This game took a really long time to come out and when it did I really couldn't spot much difference with Starcraft one in terms of gameplay :). Now is that a good or bad thing? I guess we can only answer this ourselves. I've answered with my score.
  41. lordjrs
    Jan 22, 2012
    10
    StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty is the sequel to the big eSport ever made, and what a sequel. It features modern graphics, new units, new maps, classic maps reworked, all this makes the best eSport ever. And i'm just talking about multiplayer. The campaign have great missions, beautiful cinematics, and a great plot. Waiting for Heart of the Swarm :P
  42. Pahn
    Jan 20, 2012
    2
    Corporate Greed 101. Take a beloved franchise and table it for a decade. Then, spread the sequel across 4 years (2010 - 2013) and charge full price for each "episode." This game should be titled Starcrap II: Part 1. This is part multi-player fiasco, part 3 episode single-player campaign that for some reason will take 4 years to release in full NOT counting any expansion packs. I callCorporate Greed 101. Take a beloved franchise and table it for a decade. Then, spread the sequel across 4 years (2010 - 2013) and charge full price for each "episode." This game should be titled Starcrap II: Part 1. This is part multi-player fiasco, part 3 episode single-player campaign that for some reason will take 4 years to release in full NOT counting any expansion packs. I call shenanigans on Activision. And there's no way I'm buying parts 2 or 3 simply out of principal.… Expand
  43. elitemage
    Jan 20, 2012
    10
    Truly one of the best games ever made. It may take work to get the hang of it but starcraft 2 is by far the most amazing experiences a game can produce. Blizzard really took the time to make sure that the game was perfect. This games is a must buy.
  44. Ztride
    Jan 20, 2012
    8
    A very well balanced, fast-paced RTS game with a whole lot of depth. Too bad that the multiplayer side of the game focuses so much on remembering build orders and multitasking, instead of real strategy. The singleplayer campaign is quite fun too, mostly because of the variations in the map design. Overall, I'd say that the game is more fun to watch than to play though.
  45. Kirase
    Jan 1, 2012
    9
    Release Date Jul 27, 2010 and i just take notice that i finished the campaign only one single time in this one and a half year and still do not feel like starting a second round. Honestly a bit unusal for a blizzard game. Anyways if you like rts just go and get it. Rts sure doesnt get much better than this. Problem about this game most likely only is that its standing in the huge shadow of SC1.
  46. dionissos
    Dec 31, 2011
    9
    An excellent strategy game with a excellent gameplay and mechanics and a fantastic story. Blizzard has never done a revolution to the genre but he know hot to create a game.
  47. Manmade3
    Dec 23, 2011
    10
    I can't believe a game this long in development emerged AHEAD of games at the time. I wish I could have given this game an 11, I would have been fine with another expansion to the original Starcraft. But no, Blizzard goes above and beyond and gives me cinematics of godlike proportions, choices, great graphics, STELLAR characters (I can't remember the last time I loved the characters inI can't believe a game this long in development emerged AHEAD of games at the time. I wish I could have given this game an 11, I would have been fine with another expansion to the original Starcraft. But no, Blizzard goes above and beyond and gives me cinematics of godlike proportions, choices, great graphics, STELLAR characters (I can't remember the last time I loved the characters in game this much), AND even more strategy and insanely good story layout. Id recommend this game highly to anyone who enjoyed Starcraft at any point in their life, this game will suck you right back in! EDIT: Also, the final hammer on the head for me that some of you may find laughable, is that they made this for MAC and PC. They had no reason to, but they did, and it shows compassion and loyalty to fans I haven't seen in any company since Valve… Expand
  48. meediocre
    Dec 20, 2011
    6
    I've played and completed the game, but I wouldn't call myself a Starcraf2t fan. The pace of the game and the actual combat is so quick that you can't really see how each unit is getting along. Typically the enemy will build and send a mixed party of units right at you. You hear some bangs, see some quick and brutal deaths, then it's back to the business of buiding more units. No matterI've played and completed the game, but I wouldn't call myself a Starcraf2t fan. The pace of the game and the actual combat is so quick that you can't really see how each unit is getting along. Typically the enemy will build and send a mixed party of units right at you. You hear some bangs, see some quick and brutal deaths, then it's back to the business of buiding more units. No matter how many times I've played the maps, it always boils down to scenarios that are either way too easy, or way too hard. I either end up being completely overwhelmed or the other way round. I'm comparing this to my two favourite real-time RTS games at present - RUSE and World in Conflict. Maybe my brain just is a tad slow, or I just hate having to do so much high-octane multi-tasking .. not sure, but for me I have to sit on the fence.… Expand
  49. james12600
    Dec 15, 2011
    10
    absolutely amazing game, best RTS in my opinion, excellent graphics, gameplay and even community. excellent to play at LAN parties and the perfect game for competitive play. the multiplayer is so well balanced between the races and the campaign is well designed and is great fun, well done blizzard.
  50. Yogi1001
    Dec 10, 2011
    8
    This game is great. It's addictive as hell if you one vs one ladder and a whole bucket load of amazing custom games too. So much content- like 100 games in one. Hide and seek style games or Starbattles in space with massive space ships. Plus you get a satisfying campaign. Worth the money it is. It's a blizzard game and they never dissapoint. But they lose two points for lack of clanThis game is great. It's addictive as hell if you one vs one ladder and a whole bucket load of amazing custom games too. So much content- like 100 games in one. Hide and seek style games or Starbattles in space with massive space ships. Plus you get a satisfying campaign. Worth the money it is. It's a blizzard game and they never dissapoint. But they lose two points for lack of clan support and LAN options.… Expand
  51. doodles613
    Dec 6, 2011
    9
    This game is amazing. Unlike a lot of the troll complaints, the story is awesome, far advanced from the previous one, and much more advanced then I've ever seen from an RTS. I had to play through the story mode the first day I got it becuase I had to know what happened. I love how they worked in the unit customization so I was not forced to just use whatever new unit they gave me, and IThis game is amazing. Unlike a lot of the troll complaints, the story is awesome, far advanced from the previous one, and much more advanced then I've ever seen from an RTS. I had to play through the story mode the first day I got it becuase I had to know what happened. I love how they worked in the unit customization so I was not forced to just use whatever new unit they gave me, and I could use a consistent strategy throughout the maps. I also like how they worked in doing protoss missions, and the last protoss mission was an epic level, probably one of the best in the history of any RTS ever. This game has everything going for it, but I give it a 9 for being a bit choppy still online. I was in the beta testing, and it worked fine, but when the full version came out, it was not working as well anymore, so they have to add more servers or something to compensate for the amount of players on B-net.… Expand
  52. BladeFlare
    Dec 5, 2011
    8
    this game is pretty good. ITS great. but bad enough to get an 8. this game was awesome when i first got it. i loved it and had a blast with my friends about the custom maps and how great the game was. but there are so many ways to break the game its ridiculous. im looking at you zerg. the game was boring i felt without friends with you and when they stopped i tried to continue but it justthis game is pretty good. ITS great. but bad enough to get an 8. this game was awesome when i first got it. i loved it and had a blast with my friends about the custom maps and how great the game was. but there are so many ways to break the game its ridiculous. im looking at you zerg. the game was boring i felt without friends with you and when they stopped i tried to continue but it just wasnt that fun anymore. dont get me wrong but this game just became a game that didnt last long at all. still a great game, just not the best in my opinion. but when i see people saying that this game is like a copy of the origonal, i think to myself and say that the game fixed some things that needed to be done. 1. The game needed a remake, all of the games minor details that at the time were good, are ridiculously outdated now and just need to be fixed because that was the big flaw of the game, not game play but that its outdated.

    2. A game becomes less and less popular as it gets older and more outdated. what better way to fix that then to hype a sequel and boost its popularity. starcraft is not an old game anymore.

    3. Their actually were some major changes in the game, units were added, modified, and removed, and in a game like starcraft that massively changes the game. they can't add too much because they still want starcraft. and keep in mind that if you dont want a sequel to be the same or similiar, that it brakes the game because its supposed to be similiar. jut play another game if you want a different game, they kept it starcraft, but added a 2. Cod has no excuse though because they have don this like 3 times now.
    Overall starcraft 2 was made exactly how and when it was made.    … Expand
  53. Silf
    Dec 4, 2011
    10
    To those like me who had not played Starcraft, first of the name what I can say is that Starcraft 2 is a really enjoyable RTS set in a dystopian futuristic universe. The campaign is a well-crafted way to get into the story but maybe a little short (although alternative missions and achievements makes it a re-playable game). There is a great diversity of units with unique playing style forTo those like me who had not played Starcraft, first of the name what I can say is that Starcraft 2 is a really enjoyable RTS set in a dystopian futuristic universe. The campaign is a well-crafted way to get into the story but maybe a little short (although alternative missions and achievements makes it a re-playable game). There is a great diversity of units with unique playing style for each race, so lots of strategy to try in Battlenet: the core of the game.
    The criticisms I could make: no out of the box possibility to play LAN so better have a good internet connection and then lots of trouble playing a multiplayer game online without constant lagging. Also I agree with those saying that the music, voice acting etc. could have been better.    … Expand
  54. Wargizmo
    Dec 1, 2011
    9
    Great game, played through the campaign twice now and would play again, the plot is fairly linear but the great characters, voice acting, gameplay and upgrade system more than make up for it. The multiplayer is extremely well polished with leagues and ladders and it's really easy to find a game. Then there are all the custom mods which add thousands more hours of gameplay. If I had to findGreat game, played through the campaign twice now and would play again, the plot is fairly linear but the great characters, voice acting, gameplay and upgrade system more than make up for it. The multiplayer is extremely well polished with leagues and ladders and it's really easy to find a game. Then there are all the custom mods which add thousands more hours of gameplay. If I had to find a flaw with the game it would be that some of the multiplayer features from other Blizzard RTS titles seem to have disappeared in this game, for example clan support and automated tournaments... The only people I would not recommend this game to are those who absolutely hate real time strategy games no matter what, for everyone else it's a no brainer, play it.… Expand
  55. Phoenixeuhouai
    Nov 30, 2011
    10
    Really good game, nice gameplay, great graphics. The only downside is this competitive thinking of most of people on the ladder online. It pushes the fun away whereas if you play with a friend or two, the game gets another dimension of fun! Campaign is alright and help you to get into the multiplayer quite quickly. But you can skip it, the game is worth for the multiplayer on its own.
  56. WalkingOnWater
    Nov 29, 2011
    10
    Quite simply, the greatest game I've ever played. Multiplayer is amazing fun, the races are overall well balanced, the units do need a tiny bit of work but they're still sexy, and the gameplay itself is a ton of fun. I don't have much more to say beyond that, it's the epitome of gaming, it's the finest RTS, it's the pinnacle of strategy
  57. Vahva
    Nov 27, 2011
    10
    Many of these negative review people say that this game is a total copy of SC1 with slightly better graphics. SLIGHTLY?!??! There is new animations for EVERYTHING. The graphics put on ultra are nothing short of AMAZING. Sure these graphics suck....on a pentium 3....This is my most played video game by far, and I have alot. There is tons of new units and abilities. People that say thisMany of these negative review people say that this game is a total copy of SC1 with slightly better graphics. SLIGHTLY?!??! There is new animations for EVERYTHING. The graphics put on ultra are nothing short of AMAZING. Sure these graphics suck....on a pentium 3....This is my most played video game by far, and I have alot. There is tons of new units and abilities. People that say this game is redundant obviously haven't played it, or are just absolutely terrible enough to not notice any new feautures. But I seriously don't see how this game isn't visually new...SC1 looks like horrible crap (but was still fun as hell), and this game is amazing looking. The only people that don't like this game are the people that suck at it, and probably suck at video games overall. Most likely CoD-kids that liked the cover art on the box.… Expand
  58. Kaaristu
    Nov 25, 2011
    7
    It's an okay game, it's a very well polished game. But it's just no for me. It's for the people who love doing hundreds of things at once, but I'd rather be relaxed, not tensed up doing the same thing over and over.
  59. Vio
    Nov 20, 2011
    8
    The Good: SC1 + graphics upgrade + a dash of innovation. The Bad: No LAN support, learning curv/required playing ability. I love this game I really do, I love the way it plays, the way it looks its story, its sounds, I really love it. I just wish I could play as insanely fast with all the insane amounts of knowledge necessarily to play competitively in the back of my head. In short thisThe Good: SC1 + graphics upgrade + a dash of innovation. The Bad: No LAN support, learning curv/required playing ability. I love this game I really do, I love the way it plays, the way it looks its story, its sounds, I really love it. I just wish I could play as insanely fast with all the insane amounts of knowledge necessarily to play competitively in the back of my head. In short this game's ultimate problem is it's 'professional success'. As a casual player I find it hard to enjoy this game due to the amount of things you need to be able to do per second in order to fill the minimum requirements to enter into the lowest ranked multiplayer legues. On the other hand watching people play this game and having good commentry on whats happening (aka day9) is awesome. For me at least it seems this game I will be delegated to spectator/fan rather than player. Ok - tacticaly the battles in this game are intense with any mistake meaning winning or losing, strategicaly you need to have your story together with options or you will just be out played. Is it a good strategy game? YES. Did I like it? Yes!!!!!!(and No ;) - I got rushed too much)… Expand
  60. DrCola
    Nov 19, 2011
    7
    Very addicting, only worth it if you play the multi player alot, and I mean alot. If it aint broke, dont fix it, I totally agree, the reason why rehashed games like COD suck is because their formula is broken and they release more without fixing it. But Starcraft was almost perfectly balanced. So is starcraft 2. really though, the one thing that would make me buy this game over starcraft 1Very addicting, only worth it if you play the multi player alot, and I mean alot. If it aint broke, dont fix it, I totally agree, the reason why rehashed games like COD suck is because their formula is broken and they release more without fixing it. But Starcraft was almost perfectly balanced. So is starcraft 2. really though, the one thing that would make me buy this game over starcraft 1 is the abillity to select more than 12 units at once.… Expand
  61. MLGArcane
    Nov 18, 2011
    9
    I'm going to write a fair review... Something nobody on this site does. If you come to metacritic... DO NOT judge a game based on user reviews. Come for the critic reviews because I swear half the people on this site have no idea what they are talking about and give unfair reviews.. You can't take off 4 points because you thought the color of the grass wasn't green enough.. ANYWAYS, myI'm going to write a fair review... Something nobody on this site does. If you come to metacritic... DO NOT judge a game based on user reviews. Come for the critic reviews because I swear half the people on this site have no idea what they are talking about and give unfair reviews.. You can't take off 4 points because you thought the color of the grass wasn't green enough.. ANYWAYS, my honest opinion of this game is a 9.0. The campaign is very entertaining and well written. If you were a fan of SC1 campaign, no doubt you will enjoy this one as well. But, the reason why I bought this game was for online. This game is no doubt one of the best RTS games out there. The online is one of the most enjoyable experiences I've ever had. The type of strats that people come up with always makes the game entertaining. I'm currently a diamond player, and I never get games that I don't feel challenged because the ladder system is very good at placing people around your skill level. The ladder system is by far one of the best ranking systems I've seen introducing an MMR and stigma system that properly ranks people where they should be. Starcraft 2 is just one of those game that any RTS fan MUST play. Even if you've never played an RTS, now it the time to start!… Expand
  62. Daedalus333
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    This is truly the real masterpiece everyone's talking about. If you have any interess in Blizzard's games or RTS type of games, get this at all cost !
  63. Joeydeschenes
    Nov 12, 2011
    10
    Truly amazing, multiplayer is a blast when you play with friends and single player can really be a challenge, if you like these kinds of games ( which I didn't have so much hype about when it first got release ). I don't see how people can put a low score on this, you can play without an internet connection, sure there's no lan but nobody would really use that anymore, battle-net server'sTruly amazing, multiplayer is a blast when you play with friends and single player can really be a challenge, if you like these kinds of games ( which I didn't have so much hype about when it first got release ). I don't see how people can put a low score on this, you can play without an internet connection, sure there's no lan but nobody would really use that anymore, battle-net server's never lag even across-sea.… Expand
  64. Radi0head
    Nov 11, 2011
    10
    Amazing. Just amazing. SC2 is awesome both single and multiplayer. Many people complain this is the same gameplay as before but the SC1 didn't need to be altered. I like the new units and the balancing between the races. I look forward to the expansion with other new units and strategies.
  65. Kurze
    Nov 10, 2011
    10
    Genius game, sequel to possibly the best RTS to have ever been created. Blizzard again deliver on their 25 year long standard of only releasing fully polished games with Starcraft 2 with a single player that fans of Brood War and newcomers to the series can both enjoy, and more importantly a multiplayer designed by Zeus himself. The balance is superb, the units engaging and theGenius game, sequel to possibly the best RTS to have ever been created. Blizzard again deliver on their 25 year long standard of only releasing fully polished games with Starcraft 2 with a single player that fans of Brood War and newcomers to the series can both enjoy, and more importantly a multiplayer designed by Zeus himself. The balance is superb, the units engaging and the opportunities for funky tactics to surprise your opponent limitless. There is a reason why this is already the best e-sport game out there today.… Expand
  66. grandpajoe6191
    Nov 8, 2011
    8
    "StarCraft 2" is a blast. Despite the fact that you need a damn membership, the game is slick with awesome graphics. The gameplay's the same thing, but its managaeble. They really didn't fix or improve anything necessary (except for adding in several more units to the game) but still it's impressive and addictive just like the first one.
  67. dmanhuh
    Nov 8, 2011
    10
    Starcraft has done it again. Yes terran may be a little be unbalanced, I don't see any other game thats as great as this game. The campaign was great, and online was better. They improved the graphics and brought in more units to the fight. This game is hands down the best stragedy game out there.
  68. dobserver
    Nov 8, 2011
    8
    Starcraft was one of the first games I've ever played next to Final Fantasy which brought me into the world of gaming. So I had high expectations for Starcraft II - especially since it took so long to release. Starcraft II is not a bad game, but definitely has room for improvement. In terms of the Single Player, they have made it a lot more interesting - taking multiple routes, upgradesStarcraft was one of the first games I've ever played next to Final Fantasy which brought me into the world of gaming. So I had high expectations for Starcraft II - especially since it took so long to release. Starcraft II is not a bad game, but definitely has room for improvement. In terms of the Single Player, they have made it a lot more interesting - taking multiple routes, upgrades and achievements - which all help enhance the playability of the Single Player. The original story was interesting and the Starcraft II story doesn't disappoint. (Not surprising since there is an entire series of novels...) The voice acting was pretty good and I didn't expect much character development for an RTS so it was a bit lacking in that area. They also assume that you're familiar with Starcraft lore and have played the first game. Single player was nicely done, especially for an RTS with a predecessor. The efforts to make it original paid off. Lots of new units, new buildings, new functions and a completely new balance. Which allows for new strategies to be created. This brings us into the multiplayer. I actually liked the single player more because of the customization, and it would have been cool to move this aspect over to the multiplayer but I guess that would complicate the balance of team games rather drastically. The difference in units from the original Starcraft made the multiplayer experience brand new. They seem to have upped the pace of the game so that it wouldn't take as long but the fundamentals of building a sound economy are still there. I played a lot of the multiplayer during Beta and found the existence of some balancing issues still there, but I know they'll be fixing these with patches. The matching and ranking system are a nice addition as well as the improved co-op vs. AI. Achievements made playing SC2 more fun and less of a chore. I found the game to be a bit newbie centered, as in some newbies were able to beat some veteran RTS players because of unit composition, even though the veteran had superior micro and macro management. I noticed this trend to decrease over time through the patches Blizzard has been periodically implementing. Overall a very solid game, but perhaps lacks some of the innovative features of new RTS games that make it exceptional. Splitting the game into 3 games (one for each race) is also very annoying. I don't like that way of marketing even though it increases sales. But I will wait till the other two parts are released and reserve my judgement. Depending on the price tag and the changes it might be justified.… Expand
  69. jk6959
    Nov 6, 2011
    10
    The single player game is fun and each mission gives a different type of challenge rather than just tweak variables of existing challenges. The multiplayer is where I value this game, it has everything - competitive or cooperative for 2-8 players with standard SC2 skirmish fare, or what I love, the custom maps. These have competitive countless Tower Defense games, RPGs, co-operativeThe single player game is fun and each mission gives a different type of challenge rather than just tweak variables of existing challenges. The multiplayer is where I value this game, it has everything - competitive or cooperative for 2-8 players with standard SC2 skirmish fare, or what I love, the custom maps. These have competitive countless Tower Defense games, RPGs, co-operative challenges, some DoTA clones, etc and keep making more and more. This is like how the Source Engine was to FPS Mods as SC2 is to RTS / Top-down mods

    Only annoying thing for me is that skirmish mode is not available offline. This means you can only play the single player campaign offline. Not a major issue for me as I don't travel as much anymore and thus effectively always-connected.    … Expand
  70. YeshuaAgapao
    Nov 2, 2011
    8
    Worthy of a 10, but it don't get a 10 because of the itelletual property tyranny (Battle.net runs like steam does) and especially the poor ability to independently publish and prmote mods outside of battle.net. StarCraft2 (along with Civ5) are a nice beginning welcome of the worsening police state in America. AWESOME game otherwise. The best single player. Conventional multiplayer isWorthy of a 10, but it don't get a 10 because of the itelletual property tyranny (Battle.net runs like steam does) and especially the poor ability to independently publish and prmote mods outside of battle.net. StarCraft2 (along with Civ5) are a nice beginning welcome of the worsening police state in America. AWESOME game otherwise. The best single player. Conventional multiplayer is good also. UMS multiplayer is so-so. Only maps that 'get with the program' are easily findable. Blizzard controls your map and will take it down if people white and people will never find it unless it is immensely popular. UMS or melee. People are engineered to find maps only through blizzard and I've never figured out to use a map dispensed outside of battle.net (downloaded thorugh web) in multiplayer. Totally 'please don't sue me'. Great game outside of those police state / lawsuite paranoia issues.… Expand
  71. Scoobydruid
    Oct 28, 2011
    10
    Fantastic game. The campaign is fun and unlocking objectives is engaging. The on-line matching system is good at finding you a suitable opponent once you've played some games. Lots of things to do in SC2 so the value for $60 is maximum. There are also plenty of websites that you can look at to learn to play better.
  72. John1
    Oct 28, 2011
    10
    This is the best polished RTS game out there. The game is very stable and very enjoyable to play, and even more enjoyable to watch professional games.
  73. TheArchaeon
    Oct 26, 2011
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Starcraft 2 Wings of Liberty, the long awaited sequel to the award winning Starcraft... Let me blunt, it doesn't live up to the hype, but what game does these days? The first major flaw with it is the integrated online community, which forces you to be connected to the internet to even play the game. There is an offline option, but for some reason, Blizzard thought it a good idea to make you sign in every 30 days using the internet in order to keep using the offline mode. I aimed to play this game purely alone, i do not enjoy online gameplay. It's boring. So being forced to be a part of Battle.net in order to play a game which should be firstly single player, and optionally multiplayer, really annoyed me before i even started to play the game. The second annoyance came when you find out that the only campaign you can play is that of the Terran's. To be fair, the Terran campaign has a lot of effort put into the none gameplay sections, such as animated pre-mission screens in which you can see the interior of the Hyperion Battleship. However, that's about it as far as in-depth story goes. The majority of missions are quite boring, which seem to only get vaguely better the close you get to the end of the game. The graphics are an improvement, new unit types and the ability to upgrade units and structures before the battle are quite fun, but ultimately wont improve the standard gameplay all that much. That is what this is after all of these years of waiting, it's essentially Starcraft 1 with better graphics and missing two campaigns in place of a forced internet community. Rather than have a built in community, Blizzard could have easily crafted two more campaigns for customers to enjoy, but i guess the idea of milking us for more money with expensive expansion packs was too much to ignore... The game we have awaited for years is a disappointment, though any Starcraft fan will enjoy it, just don't expect any real innovation here. You will be playing Starcraft 1 with just a few new units and improved graphics and a pointless achievement system which you can only use if connected to the internet. This is the future of games it seems, linear single player options and multiplayer modes which are forced upon you. With Starcraft 2 Wings of Liberty, you pay for the privilege to play the game Blizzard's way. Once you have completed the campaign there's not much to do, play the odd game against the terrible AI, and await the arrival of two more expansion packs each with a single campaign and a nice price tag.… Expand
  74. Dan341
    Oct 25, 2011
    10
    This game is more than worthy of being the successor to one of my all time favorites. As expected, Blizzard delivers! Every aspect is outstanding. The only gripes I can come up with was that you could not turn the game speed down on Hard mode... which makes it more frustrating than difficult trying to manage 10 things at the same time. Players not familiar with the original wouldn'tThis game is more than worthy of being the successor to one of my all time favorites. As expected, Blizzard delivers! Every aspect is outstanding. The only gripes I can come up with was that you could not turn the game speed down on Hard mode... which makes it more frustrating than difficult trying to manage 10 things at the same time. Players not familiar with the original wouldn't get the hype. One really should play the original in its entirety before taking on this gem of a game. I do not consider the multi-player aspects in this review. It forces one to use Battle.Net, which isn't really a bad thing for the majority of players.… Expand
  75. Mystril
    Oct 24, 2011
    10
    "If it aint broke, don't fix it". This game changes very little from SCI, but it doesn't really need to. It is fresh enough to warrant having a "2" put on it, and still it feels alot like "1", enough to bring back great memories from the first game.
    I dunno how many hours I have played this game, but one thing is for certain, it was never dull. The campaign I liked, alot (first campaign I    "If it aint broke, don't fix it". This game changes very little from SCI, but it doesn't really need to. It is fresh enough to warrant having a "2" put on it, and still it feels alot like "1", enough to bring back great memories from the first game.
    I dunno how many hours I have played this game, but one thing is for certain, it was never dull. The campaign I liked, alot (first campaign I have ever finished for an RTS, I never really played SC1's campaign, I just played skirmishes), the multiplayer (as always is awesome). All in all, its a great game.    … Expand
  76. Avadon
    Oct 13, 2011
    4
    A little over a year after SC2's release, Blizzard have yet not added clan support, LAN (which leads to massive problems during tournaments) or Gateway selection. You are also still limited to one account per cd key, which means that if you step away from the game for a couple of months or want to try a different race you will have to get stomped for many, many games until your rankingA little over a year after SC2's release, Blizzard have yet not added clan support, LAN (which leads to massive problems during tournaments) or Gateway selection. You are also still limited to one account per cd key, which means that if you step away from the game for a couple of months or want to try a different race you will have to get stomped for many, many games until your ranking plummets to where it's supposed to be. They are also reacting in a tragically slow manner to balance concerns, and usually in the wrong direction, as if they are incapable of fixing the game or don't really care about WoL's balance, since they have two more games on the horizon.

    As for the single player, it's widely viewed as terrible. The story, characters and dialogues were absolute rubbish, and its only saving grace was the relative variety of the mission objectives. Even so, I know many people who have played SC1 and Brood War's campaigns >10 times, but never bothered with SC2's campaign again after they were done with the achievements, which is not a good sign.

    Its graphics are still bad and not much effort has been done to improve them or optimize them. Even 5 year old games like SupCom and C&C3 look much better than SC2, but you still need a **** quad core CPU and a good GPU to run SC2 with everything maxed, for disappointing results, and still have it lag when maxed armies collide. Unacceptable for an e-sport, every professional player out there plays on low settings to avoid graphical lag that could cost him the game.

    Still, even though it doesn't offer much to the casual player, SC2 is a rapidly growing e-sport with hundreds of shiny tournaments going on. It is also amazing to watch, unfortunately much more enjoyable to watch than to actually play. I do enjoy watching SC2 tournaments, even though, like everyone else, I often get bummed out by imbalances that Blizzard timidly attempt to address once every 6 months, but always end up short.

    If you would like an e-sport to watch and be entertained, I would recommend buying SC2, it does have potential and maybe 2 years after Legacy of the Void it will actually be balanced. I can't however recommend it to casual players who don't play a lot, or people who expect a unique and immersive single player experience like Brood War had.    … Expand
  77. choppy
    Oct 12, 2011
    5
    As a single-player, two words: vastly disappointing. I played and loved the original Starcraft purely for its singleplayer experience. I like taking my time and playing it my way. I have no interest in being 'pwned' by rude kids online. Apparently, that is totally unacceptable to Blizzard. Everything about the new game is about forcing you into multiplayer. Almost every singleplayerAs a single-player, two words: vastly disappointing. I played and loved the original Starcraft purely for its singleplayer experience. I like taking my time and playing it my way. I have no interest in being 'pwned' by rude kids online. Apparently, that is totally unacceptable to Blizzard. Everything about the new game is about forcing you into multiplayer. Almost every singleplayer mission focuses on microing some new unit, against a clock. You have to play it their way, and in a hurry, or you will lose. There's no time to play around or adapt your own style or strategy. It's all about using Reapers or some other unit in a rush against a game board that has been artificially tilted to necessitate lots of Reapers. So, the shackling of the personal singleplayer experience (every mission must teach you how to play multiplayer!) is problem number one.

    Problem number two is that Blizzard killed the epic story. You have to choose what tone you want your story to take - is it epic or serious, or is it jokey? Blizzard tries to mix both - cartoonish characters who are constantly overacting, being goofy, acting ridiculous, mixes in with moments of maudlin sentimentality and high seriousness. I just can't take a poorly-animated man with shoulders bigger than his head who suddenly starts crying over the horrors of battle seriously. You can have an epic story with light moments and dark humor, but you can't have characters that seem ridiculous or are "in on the joke", winking and riffing on the series itself. This ruins the immersion.

    In short, the singleplayer was completely ruined for me. I don't care about multiplayer, and I definitely won't be buying the sequel. Great job, Blizzard, I hope it was worth it to you.    … Expand
  78. MikefromAngus
    Oct 4, 2011
    10
    A game that I sitll play once a week, after more then an year after its release is an amazing thing!
    Campaign was fun! but multiplayer got me hooked! great game!
  79. vXxo0oxXv
    Sep 30, 2011
    3
    To be fair, this game kept me entertained for a good while. It falls short in a number of places however. The battles are high speed, short and very difficult to manage for anyone without years of RTS experience. The resource gathering method is a little... how do you say... outdated? Managing workers is more of a hassel than anything else in this game. Microing them when they are underTo be fair, this game kept me entertained for a good while. It falls short in a number of places however. The battles are high speed, short and very difficult to manage for anyone without years of RTS experience. The resource gathering method is a little... how do you say... outdated? Managing workers is more of a hassel than anything else in this game. Microing them when they are under attack is not fun, and you can lose them all in a matter of seconds, which completely ruins your chance of winning the game. Also not fun. Scouting is near impossible in this game. You will find yourself most of the time simply trying to make educated guesses on what your opponent is building. An incorrect guess can lead you to a loss. This is especially irritating when one or two stealth units kills your entire army and base. The early tier units completely overpower anything late tier. It is not surprising to see even a top level player build 10-15 barracks or gateways and just pump mass garbage units. Stategic element is lacking. The most strategic thing you will do in this game is drop units on an enemy mineral patch. It's all about speed. You see the same build orders game after game. No real variants on the ladder. Some units just aren't worth building. The SC2 battle.net forum is catered for little kids and Christians. Perhaps the worst part of the game however, is the fact that you spend most of the game staring at your base. Active engagements seldomly take place, and the god awful ramp mechanics make penetration into the enemy base more irritating and frustrating than anything else, and also highly favor the defender. Save the money. Buy new brake pads or something.… Expand
  80. Hamez07
    Sep 25, 2011
    9
    Starcraft 2 is not anything new. It's not revolutionary. It's not new, it's not the first RTS. But it is the same as the last one. Starcraft was amazing and Starcraft 2 has shown that a game doesn't have to be any different to the last one to be amazing. The gameplay of Starcraft 2 is amazing, but not new. Blizzard have taken everything they did right in Starcraft and just improved on itStarcraft 2 is not anything new. It's not revolutionary. It's not new, it's not the first RTS. But it is the same as the last one. Starcraft was amazing and Starcraft 2 has shown that a game doesn't have to be any different to the last one to be amazing. The gameplay of Starcraft 2 is amazing, but not new. Blizzard have taken everything they did right in Starcraft and just improved on it for Starcraft 2. The game is amazing. The game does have its downsides though, The cut scene aren't very action pack and can be quite boring after a while as it is just talking but when you turn the pc graphics up to the highest, your PC will explode but in those few second where its just on fire you can see the beauty of this game. This game is so good, I cannot express that enough. The storyline is beautiful and it's full of amazing characters. The gameplay is amazing and so fast pace when you want it to be. This game is amazing and now Blizzard needs to get going with the next one, Heart of the swarm because one of these games every decade is not enough. I need more starcraft...

    Or Diablo 3...    … Expand
  81. grok70
    Sep 18, 2011
    3
    When I was 15 I nearly flunked 2 years of high school playing Starcraft. I stayed up drinking coca cola playing Big Game Hunters with infinite resources, fine tuning my economic build and learning how to make people miserable. I had been looking forward to this game for over a decade.

    Why am I not playing Starcraft 2? I paid $60 for it. I Played through the entire campaign then I stopped    When I was 15 I nearly flunked 2 years of high school playing Starcraft. I stayed up drinking coca cola playing Big Game Hunters with infinite resources, fine tuning my economic build and learning how to make people miserable. I had been looking forward to this game for over a decade.

    Why am I not playing Starcraft 2? I paid $60 for it. I Played through the entire campaign then I stopped playing. Starcraft 2 is Starcraft. It didn't feel any different. I still ended up setting up with siege tanks and marines, slowly grinding my way through all opposition while my base sat pretty. The goliaths were still worthless, and the bigger version of the Goliath...still worthless. It was easier to keep the base defended - my supply depots didn't have to be blown up in order to leave. The computer was the same AI I had dealt with in Broodwars. What does this game offer really? The whole campaign, except the cut scenes/ SS-pointless, could have been done using the old map editor. The campaign was trite, the character development non-existent, the plot movement utterly unsurprising. The animations weren't particularly good. The buildings looked cool - in 1996. The artwork was inappropriate for the quality of graphics that were possible. The economy was uninspired.

    Truthfully I knew this would be the case walking in. I watched the e-sport videos during beta. I kept thinking....there is nothing new here. NOTHING. What was improved upon in Starcraft 2? What was really innovation? Units that move up cliffs. That's it. Otherwise it's just an expansion. A boring one. Maybe it's the Korean gaming scene, or the just the outrageous nerdrage inherent in the fetishistic fandom that follows blizzard, but it seems like all innovation was squashed. I paid $60 dollars, and I don't think I will ever play the game again after getting through the trite storyline. Wikipedia is free, I could have just gone and read it. I will not be buying expansions.

    If you liked Starcraft 1 and already matured and move on from its gameplay, this game is not worth it. PS: Blizzard, Hire some professional writers who have credits in literature and cinema that have won awards. Whoever you have doing it needs to be sent to get their MFA or something, this $#!7 is bad.    … Expand
  82. Olivrar
    Sep 17, 2011
    9
    Starcraft II, where to begin? I've been reading all these negative and mixed reviews and they all go along the lines of something saying "Too many counters, unbalanced, too competitive, segregates community, pro's play pro's, newbies stay bad". My response to that? You're bad and you will stay bad.

    The multiplayer segment of Starcraft II isn't like any other RTS. People can cry all day    Starcraft II, where to begin? I've been reading all these negative and mixed reviews and they all go along the lines of something saying "Too many counters, unbalanced, too competitive, segregates community, pro's play pro's, newbies stay bad". My response to that? You're bad and you will stay bad.

    The multiplayer segment of Starcraft II isn't like any other RTS. People can cry all day saying how a unit or race is overpowered but they really aren't. When a unit is deemed overpowered, it quickly gets nerfed as metagame changes. This isn't some bullshi*t RTS where you get the super unit and you win, this is a game of pure wits and pure logical thinking, no one strategy or one unit will let you win. The time for passive RTS is over, Starcraft II brings thinking in an RTS to a whole new level.

    Furthermore, the way some of these negative reviews begin to post slander saying that "baddies stay bad, pro's stay pro" is pure nonsense. I bought this game about a month ago and this was the second RTS i've ever played, first being Age of Empires II many years ago. I eagerly did my ladder games and got placed into bronze. After many hours of dedication and hardwork, I worked my way up all the way to platinum. Newbies who join the game will not stay bad, Pro's will not stay pro. If you have a fickle mindset and can't be bothered to work at anything, you'll suck at this game and pretty much anything in life.

    It's harsh and it's true. Starcraft II multiplayer requires 100% mental focus and an extreme desire to play it in order to get better. Don't fool yourself into thinking you can get to a high league without work!    … Expand
  83. CivBase
    Sep 16, 2011
    10
    As if this needs another 10. It has the best RTS story I've ever seen. Starcraft is one of those few RTS games that actually understand what the "S" stands for. Units are perfectly balanced and the counters are simply genious. It allows for many different playing styles without giving anyone an advantage. In addition, the super-powerful map editor gives players an unlimited amount ofAs if this needs another 10. It has the best RTS story I've ever seen. Starcraft is one of those few RTS games that actually understand what the "S" stands for. Units are perfectly balanced and the counters are simply genious. It allows for many different playing styles without giving anyone an advantage. In addition, the super-powerful map editor gives players an unlimited amount of replay value once they make their way to the custom games list. Starcraft is the best RTS game on the market and you'd be a fool to think otherwise.… Expand
  84. Renge
    Sep 15, 2011
    0
    This game doesn't make me to play it for a long time. Played SP once, play ladder once. And that's it. Nothing new. Story-wise it is very very so-so, the gap is closed a little with hollywood style angle. And the region-lock is very annoying. I play at SEA region, and the custom map here is very little.
  85. Shaytan1986
    Sep 2, 2011
    6
    Pros: Like most blizzard games, Starcraft II ships with a lot of replay value. One of the main strong points of the game is that the races and units have always been very well balanced leading to a lot of room for skill in the game. The ease of joining multiplayer games and custom games is quite easy as well. Cons: They havn't really changed anything from Starcraft 1. It's still 2.5D, samePros: Like most blizzard games, Starcraft II ships with a lot of replay value. One of the main strong points of the game is that the races and units have always been very well balanced leading to a lot of room for skill in the game. The ease of joining multiplayer games and custom games is quite easy as well. Cons: They havn't really changed anything from Starcraft 1. It's still 2.5D, same units, same resolution, same everything. If you adored the first one, maybe that's not a con, but considering the price tag on it, it seems a little overrated. You can't change the defaults of the game outside a narrowly defined set of rules from blizzard (game speed, AI Difficulty, races, etc), and it takes forever to load maps, even for single player.

    Conclusion: On the whole, it's not a bad game, it's just a little weak for what you pay for. If you like Starcraft 1, you'll love Starcraft 2, but otherwise it's not really a panty dropper. I gave it a 6 because it's more good than bad IMO, but bare in mind, were this school, that would still be a "D".    … Expand
  86. brand_eins
    Sep 2, 2011
    1
    Bad, bad, bad. Rehashed game, just graphics have been improved. Less features (e.g. LAN). Boring gameplay, no tactical usage of the enviroment such as cover, etc. Dull missions. There are better RTS out. Don't buy this one.
  87. liquefire
    Sep 1, 2011
    7
    Liked the new units, some tweaks were really appreciated but the overall feeling left me a bit empty. Maybe because SC1 had all three races to play and this one just seemed good but not great. Feeling that all 3 story lines could have been included in this one to make every level interesting versus a few which were too easy. I guess its more economical to sell 3 games vs. 1 - for Blizzard.
  88. stinky
    Aug 19, 2011
    1
    the most over-hyped sequel of all time to the the most overrated game of all time. the fixed some UI gripes, and updated the graphics........ but it is if anything worse. the original had the excuse of poor hardware to run it but this? its almost the same. the gameplay is still over intensive and far too small. unit AI is almost non-existent. there is still no physics to speak of, not eventhe most over-hyped sequel of all time to the the most overrated game of all time. the fixed some UI gripes, and updated the graphics........ but it is if anything worse. the original had the excuse of poor hardware to run it but this? its almost the same. the gameplay is still over intensive and far too small. unit AI is almost non-existent. there is still no physics to speak of, not even three dimensional gameplay (no heights, just "land" or "air" a ranged unit can attack from the base of one side of a hill to the opposite side, firing THROUGH the hill). still massively restrictive unit caps. No LAN play, which even starcraft one had.. at most it is an expansion to the original, 10 years late and twice the price. all polished up but bland, repetitive gameplay.… Expand
  89. tech953
    Aug 16, 2011
    10
    F@#k you all who said that this game sucks. 82 game critics raved about this thing, and 82 million people raved about this thing and you have the balls to say that it sucks? This games in game graphics are amazing, the story is like an effing blockbuster movie, and the game play ranks among this generations best. Do yourself a favor you no talent hacks. Just admit that you suck at rating games.
  90. mongoosedog
    Aug 5, 2011
    6
    I really liked this game, but it was so expensive and the campaign was so short. I know a lot of people that never even played the campaign and swear by the online games... but I still really feel let down. Oh well.
  91. Aodecim
    Jul 30, 2011
    9
    A worthy successor to the Starcraft series....The single-player campaign uses a new system that offers development and individual gameplay style progression with caters to RPG fans and RTS fans alike. The story was slightly drab but the mission scenarios were enough to keep the game entertaining. Combined with Blizzard's infamous map editor tools, this game's multiplayer functions areA worthy successor to the Starcraft series....The single-player campaign uses a new system that offers development and individual gameplay style progression with caters to RPG fans and RTS fans alike. The story was slightly drab but the mission scenarios were enough to keep the game entertaining. Combined with Blizzard's infamous map editor tools, this game's multiplayer functions are almost as limitless as Minecraft's creativity.… Expand
  92. wordy_actions
    Jul 29, 2011
    10
    A good return to the Starcraft universe. The three races that made SC1 such a huge success are back and better than ever. Blizzard has done a very good job of giving each race new strategies and units. As for competitive matches, this game excels. The online functionality is for the most part excellent, but occasionally there are bugs. Fortunately they are usually quickly resolved. TheA good return to the Starcraft universe. The three races that made SC1 such a huge success are back and better than ever. Blizzard has done a very good job of giving each race new strategies and units. As for competitive matches, this game excels. The online functionality is for the most part excellent, but occasionally there are bugs. Fortunately they are usually quickly resolved. The online custom maps are another reason why I'm giving this game a high rating. The editor is amazing, and even more amazing are the things the map-making community is creating. Even though the online competition and the campaign are good, I feel that the custom maps are the best part about the game. Highly recommended to any PC gamer since this game can provide almost endless entertainment.… Expand
  93. Apollo
    Jul 25, 2011
    10
    Best RTS ever made. Better than sc1 in every way. This game is hands down the greatest game ever made. Everything about the original was improved to a great degree, from match making to game balance. The new units add a lot of new strategies as do new mechanics such as destructible rocks, xel'naga watch towers and the addition of a second gas node at every base.
  94. davenbettridge
    Jul 19, 2011
    8
    Overall the longevity of SC2 is as good as it ever will get, millions will be playing this game for years to come which is a stupendous achievement and makes Blizzard a master video game company. The multiplayer side of Starcraft 2 is almost flawless (perhaps only for the lack of LAN support). More than any other recent release, Starcraft 2 is incredibly fun and is both easy to play butOverall the longevity of SC2 is as good as it ever will get, millions will be playing this game for years to come which is a stupendous achievement and makes Blizzard a master video game company. The multiplayer side of Starcraft 2 is almost flawless (perhaps only for the lack of LAN support). More than any other recent release, Starcraft 2 is incredibly fun and is both easy to play but hard (very hard) to master and is continuing the momentum of E-sports. The custom maps as always are brilliant, provide endless amounts of content for pros and the noobs and will likely continue to evolve in the years to come. The art and sound design of SC2 are fantastic. Blizzard has some of the best artists in the industry and it really shows in its visuals. The UI and gameplay are also next to flawless. And for the singleplayer side of SC2, Blizzards decision to split the Starcraft racial campaigns across 2 expansions is a tricky divided one. On the one hand I certainly want a lot of content for Starcraft 2 and the promised two expansions are great and exciting, the idea of having long Terran, Zerg and Protoss stories are great, solely focusing on the Terran story for SC1 provides an awesome opportunity to REALLY get a good satisfying, memorable story rather than the short 10 mission Terran campaign in SC1. However the execution of Starcraft 2s single player is a mix. Dont get me wrong the gameplay is great, production values are outstanding, many levels are memorable and awesome, and the characters at times are interesting but the overall story that holds it all together, while not too bad, lacks the captivating and satisfying awesome factor that made up Starcraft 1. The story does have some moments; the upgrade system is a good idea but not truly realised and by the end feels a bit empty. It will take the promised 2 expansions to reveal Starcraft 2s true worth, but as it stands in The Wings of Liberty, the game is great in all accounts but for its lacking story.… Expand
  95. MrFpeas
    Jul 16, 2011
    8
    A very great multiplayer game, only lacking a few elements in singleplayer. With a lot more emphasis on macro play and consistent patches to keep balance issues addressed, the multiplayer, which many people bought the game for, is very well drawn out. However, I felt that despite being at least 12 years since the first Starcraft, they would have implemented a 3-d scale environment (such asA very great multiplayer game, only lacking a few elements in singleplayer. With a lot more emphasis on macro play and consistent patches to keep balance issues addressed, the multiplayer, which many people bought the game for, is very well drawn out. However, I felt that despite being at least 12 years since the first Starcraft, they would have implemented a 3-d scale environment (such as Total Annihilation) but they decided to stick with the 2-tier + ramps design. Whether it was for balancing issues or not, that left me a little disappointed. The singleplayer is nicely designed, but the plot and characters were not very compelling. Some people have noted that the dialogue in Starcraft 1 was better written than Starcraft 2 and I have to agree with them. But, like I said earlier, this game is very big on the multiplayer and, seeing as it's been a year and many successful tournaments have been held, accomplished in being a very good multiplayer RTS. Only time will tell if they can improve the storytelling in Heart of the Swarm.… Expand
  96. czerro
    Jul 13, 2011
    7
    I don't understand the diversity of the ratings. It IS a good game...unfortunately it is NOT as good as SC. Does that make it a 1? No, just like how it can't be a 10 because it's a step back. The cut scenes are over long and uninteresting, and maneuvering about the ship for console style "reward" upgrading is silly as well. That being said, the game is a nice visual upgrade. It isI don't understand the diversity of the ratings. It IS a good game...unfortunately it is NOT as good as SC. Does that make it a 1? No, just like how it can't be a 10 because it's a step back. The cut scenes are over long and uninteresting, and maneuvering about the ship for console style "reward" upgrading is silly as well. That being said, the game is a nice visual upgrade. It is not WC3, which I think myself and many others are quite happy about. Unfortunately, it's not SC either. The campaign missions all feel unique and interesting, but we could have done away with all of the cutscenes and shipboard pre-mission elements. Overall there are too many units. The most complex strategy games are based on the most basic of elements. No one ever tried to develop Chess 2 with the selling point of 3 times as many types of units would make it better. Wouldn't every type of poker be better and more complex if instead of 13 cards per suit there were 50?! No. As much as BroodWar overstepped the line with the addition of units that actually ruined game balance, SC2 has overstepped the line and simply included TOO MANY units for any sort of strategic balance.

    I know I am digging into this game a bit, but that's only because I expected a lot more of the creators of WC2 and SC. WITHOUT that pedigree on it's heels, its actually quite a fun little single player campaign, and decent online. Definitely a step back for the franchise though. Less is more, but blizzard was apparently more interested in excess in all areas: unit variety, theatrical cutscenes, dull expositions on a done to death unoriginal storyline, PRICE. Still a good game simply because it was based on a great game, but definitely a huge gaff on Blizzards part.    … Expand
  97. DeadlyCornbread
    Jul 12, 2011
    10
    I've come to expect a lot out of Blizzard since i first started playing their games (I started with Warcraft 2). And with each release (except World of Warcraft, I do not play MMORPG's) they take what I expect, and add even more. Starcraft 2 exceeds all of my expectations and adds things I never knew I needed.

    The control interface is extremely important in RTS games and this is one is    I've come to expect a lot out of Blizzard since i first started playing their games (I started with Warcraft 2). And with each release (except World of Warcraft, I do not play MMORPG's) they take what I expect, and add even more. Starcraft 2 exceeds all of my expectations and adds things I never knew I needed.

    The control interface is extremely important in RTS games and this is one is hands down one of the easiest to use, and as precise as a razor. Using the tab key to select different unit types within a control group was ingenious. Hot keys bound to similar keys throughout all the armies, no more remembering what the ability is called to use it. But typically E is engage and D is disengage. And the presentations is beautiful. Not only this, but it is extremely smooth for the amount of action the game shows onscreen. Just look at gameplay videos and screenshots to see how great it looks.

    Better yet, the multiplayer is addictive and fun. New units have arrived, and they fill multiple roles. Vultures and firebats are NOT in multiplayer, instead they are replaced by a Hellion that fills both roles in one unit. There are many more instances like this, but I'm not going to carry on with all the changes. And custom maps are there to give you fresh change of pace and play some interesting maps that are sometimes nothing like the original game.

    In the end the singleplayer is engaging and fun, the mulitplayer will keep you coming back for more, the graphics are slick and smooth, all coming together to create a game well worth it's cost, and another heavy hitter title under Blizzard's belt. Absolutely worth getting!    … Expand
  98. Slipfeed
    Jul 8, 2011
    7
    Having finally picked up starcraft 2 about a month ago, having succumbed to the endless hype from rabid fans and excited shoutcasters, I now find myself in an interesting position.

    Starcraft, you see, has become somewhat of a cultural phenomenon in the gaming community. Boasting one of (if not the most) zealous fanbases this side of Justin Bieber. Professional tournaments are played    Having finally picked up starcraft 2 about a month ago, having succumbed to the endless hype from rabid fans and excited shoutcasters, I now find myself in an interesting position.

    Starcraft, you see, has become somewhat of a cultural phenomenon in the gaming community. Boasting one of (if not the most) zealous fanbases this side of Justin Bieber. Professional tournaments are played world wide. Small numbers of fans line up for hours to watch this game being played.

    And here is where my previously mentioned position becomes interesting. I don't understand why....

    The game itself is nothing short of mediocre. All of the otherwise exciting portions of the game, the combat in particular, are forced to take a back seat to mundane tasks like constructing supply depot's, or consistently pressing a certain series of keys on your keyboard as fast as you possibly can throughout the game.

    This leaves little of the players attention for combat, and oh man does it show.

    Imagine if you will, a football game where the action on the field is constantly covered by an overlay of the plays that the two teams are running, and might run next on the screen. Furthermore, the players on the field are not allowed to deviate from those plays for any reason. they must attack move the enemy, because the coach has something more important to do. We need another supply depot.

    And here in lies the folly of choosing starcraft as the worlds electronic sport. It's boring. Listen to the commentators during a match at dreamhack or NASL. They're talking about minerals, and gas, and bases. Production facility's and APM, and that drone that's been circling the map for the last three minutes scouting. When a fight does occur, its an afterthought. The player has pressed a couple of buttons, and moved on while the commentators do their best to make it sound like the players are fully engaged, but the way the actual fight plays out tells the true tale. There is little to no tactical creativity involved. Like our football players that are not allowed to make snap decisions on the field, starcraft players don't have the time or the mechanics available to win a battle through tactics or strategy, because if they allow too much of their attention to flow into the battle, they will loose the war.

    Said war mostly involves the construction of buildings. More harvesters, more barracks, more command centers, more hatchery's, with more queens to repeatedly spit on them for more larvae, inducing a near trance state for more work and less fun.

    E-sports will never take off like this. Not in a mainstream sense. When the game you choose as your flagship relegates the excitement down to a distraction meant to draw a players attention away from the repetitive and monotonous tasks that must be performed to actually win, the combat will never be engaging enough to the viewer to hold their attention.

    And why should starcraft's combat hold the attention of an audience? It cant even hold the attention of the players.

    The single player campaign, thankfully, is immune to this disease. Giving the player more choices in the realm of army customization, both strategic and tactical, the single player campaign manages to find innovative and interesting ways to make sure the player is always on their toes. It could almost be said that mission mechanics where used as a tool to make the campaigns combat the focus, while all of these tools where stripped out of the multiplayer along with the majority of customization options.

    It's too bad blizzard was so focused on creating a multiplayer experience that south Koreans could use to display their superior button mashing skills they forgot to provide a conduit for creative tactical response.

    All in all, the single player campaign is worth the money, even for those that don't consider themselves starcraft fans.

    Most should probably uninstall the moment they complete it however, because unless you're looking for a second job that will never pay you, and cause more frustration than your mother in law, multiplayer is not for you.    … Expand
  99. Xrinor
    Jul 8, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This a right way of Real-Time Strategy game. Remain the game-play of resource gathering and base building. LAN play has been removed, this is a good way to anti-piracy.… Expand
  100. LordOFlibertY
    Jul 8, 2011
    9
    StarCraft 2 must be in every single top 10 strategy game of all time or else the writer is lying. Now what makes this game so great? Balance.
    That's right, not graphics, not gameplay (though they are pretty good) but it is Balance that makes StarCraft 2 the most greatest strategy game. Unfortunatly my only critique is the lack of races to play in Campaign and no LAN option.
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best PC Game of 2010
2
#2 Most Discussed PC Game of 2010
5
#5 Most Shared PC Game of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
93

Universal acclaim - based on 82 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 82 out of 82
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 82
  3. Negative: 0 out of 82
  1. PC Zone UK
    Jan 18, 2011
    95
    "Quotation Forthcoming"
  2. Video Game Talk
    Jan 18, 2011
    90
    If you are into real time strategy in any form, it's hard to ignore Starcraft II.
    Read full review
  3. PC Format
    Dec 24, 2010
    93
    Perfectly balanced multiplayer with old school elements intact, and rich and dynamic single player campaigns. [Issue#244, p.102]
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