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. Moogle
    Dec 21, 2010
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The gameplay is simply fantastic. Everything feels much smoother, the melee is great... and everything else sucks.

    The campaign was simply terrible. Cliche ridden dialog (time to put this rebellion into overdrive!), retcons (Oh Overmind, how you have fallen), random plot holes (hey - lets bust onto Mengsk' flagship and kill all his guards AND GET OFFERED A DEAL. No mention made of the dead guards.), and everything else makes it sickening.

    Custom games are ridiculous. The popularity system for ranking maps is simply stupid. New games can't get up there. The editor is somewhat improved over Warcraft 3, but the scripting/triggering side is still crappy. Worse, since SC2 doesn't even off GetHandleId like WC3. What's wrong with just introducing python or something already in the industry? Why make your own heavily neutered version of C?

    Battle.net 2 is a slap in the face. The menu is made of laggy, stupid flash based dialogs. No chat channels, no clans, lobbies for custom games automatically start... with a 30 second timer. That you can't quit out of except by logging out.

    What is this, Blizzard?

    I'd recommend if you enjoy melee (and I do), but you're better off avoiding the campaign and the custom game system. At least, until they fix it. They're getting there with patches, but you should never release a game missing features.    … Expand
  2. stimmedmarine
    Dec 22, 2010
    2
    No direct B-Chat.... When you enter this game you feel alone... It has northing to do with Online Gaming. You got not real direct contact to your enemies or friends
  3. theone565
    Dec 24, 2010
    10
    Not only does this game build on the original award-winning game from 1998, but this game also brings in more features and drastically improves on the gameplay. If it is possible to take the best and make it better, Starcraft II : Wings of Liberty has done it. With several new abilities that boost the economy, like the terran M.U.L.E. , the zerg queen's spawn larvae ability, and theNot only does this game build on the original award-winning game from 1998, but this game also brings in more features and drastically improves on the gameplay. If it is possible to take the best and make it better, Starcraft II : Wings of Liberty has done it. With several new abilities that boost the economy, like the terran M.U.L.E. , the zerg queen's spawn larvae ability, and the protoss chronoboost ability, it makes building a large number of units quickly very easy. Also, there are several new units, like the terran Thor, the zerg roach, and the protoss stalker. Blizzard has also replaced several unbalanced units with better units, or made unbalanced units balanced. The terran goliath has been replaced with the viking, the zerg mutualisk has increased in price, and the zealot can now sprint towards its target. Blizzard has done it again.… Expand
  4. VentXekart
    Jan 9, 2011
    10
    It was totally worth waiting the ten years of development, I believe this game to be one of the best strategy games to ever be produced by Blizzard Entertainment.
  5. vmp
    Dec 29, 2010
    5
    If this was the first SC ever released, it could get a 7 maybe 8. Cinematics and storyline are pretty poor, failed to create any nice atmosphere. The single player campaign is very short to the point that I felt robbed. It has pretty graphics though and it is still entertaining and quite interesting to play. Quite good game.
    But for people who have played the first one and/or the Brood war    If this was the first SC ever released, it could get a 7 maybe 8. Cinematics and storyline are pretty poor, failed to create any nice atmosphere. The single player campaign is very short to the point that I felt robbed. It has pretty graphics though and it is still entertaining and quite interesting to play. Quite good game.
    But for people who have played the first one and/or the Brood war it just feels like a memorabilia rather than a fresh game. Very few new elements and the same game play that we know for 12 years with much less content and a high price tag.    … Expand
  6. iamportal
    Dec 29, 2010
    10
    I absolutely love this game! The campaign has a few flaws, but is one of the best in the whole RTS genre. The online multiplayer is wonderful, and battle.net 2.0 works perfectly.
  7. Omegamon
    Jan 2, 2011
    9
    I was a Starcraft nut when the first game came out and a number of years after. I used to play it all day with my buddies. So it is pointless to say that i had high hopes for this one. Also I cannot help but compare it to the original Starcraft. Gameplay: The gameplay is good, I think it's actually harder then the first one. A lot of variety and build choices. Speed seems to be theI was a Starcraft nut when the first game came out and a number of years after. I used to play it all day with my buddies. So it is pointless to say that i had high hopes for this one. Also I cannot help but compare it to the original Starcraft. Gameplay: The gameplay is good, I think it's actually harder then the first one. A lot of variety and build choices. Speed seems to be the governing attribute in terms of player qualities required to be proficient at the game, sometimes to the detriment of creativity. This makes established builds dominant especially in the early game, leaving experimentation valid only against weaker players. There seems to be a number of hard counter units in the game which make the rock-paper-scissors aspect of the game more visible. I wish game designers would grow out of this, as rock-paper-scissors is not a good base for strategy games, being a game of luck and all. Story: The single player story sucks big time, it's a generic, "I'm the good guy, the establishment is bad" kind of deal, which wouldn't be that bad by itself though. However the dialog sinks the whole thing as all characters pretty much spew banalities and talk to the camera. To me, the story is what seals my impression of the game. I guess this is what happens when professional writers have to come up with stories for games they are not nuts about. Also speaking of the single player campaign, it is very rigid and consists almost solely of "against the clock" missions. In my book, the single player campaign should allow the user to waste some time and "smell the graphics" and leave the time pressing aspects to the multi-player. Graphics: They are decent, functional, not over the top. Conclusion: Good game, but could use some help with the story which pretty much transforms it into a Hollywood "Pearl Harbor" kind of production.… Expand
  8. maxpower1118
    Jan 4, 2011
    10
    This game is great. period. The storyline is pretty good, and pretty long and all but a few missions are really fun. But in my opinion the main good thing about the game is the multi-player mode. Battlenet 2.0 is really good at finding and pairing you against people who have about your skill level, although rarely you get paired with someone who is way above or below your skill level. IThis game is great. period. The storyline is pretty good, and pretty long and all but a few missions are really fun. But in my opinion the main good thing about the game is the multi-player mode. Battlenet 2.0 is really good at finding and pairing you against people who have about your skill level, although rarely you get paired with someone who is way above or below your skill level. I have never played SC1, but i am very into other RTSs. I play the total war series and age of empires and stuff... everyone who is saying bad things about the game being the same as SC1 is basically complaining about what they asked for. It is NOT all hype. Sure the game is similar to SC1 most likely because that is what people wanted -- SC2, not a new and completely different game with the same title. It is NOT all hype. I went into the game expecting a good game, but not hyped on the SC1 hype, and it delivered a good game.… Expand
  9. Templar19
    Jan 13, 2011
    8
    Starcraft was one of the only games i played years ago, i have been waiting for Starcraft 2 for a LONG time. I ended up spending $60 on the game the day after it came out. Now i was greatly satisfied at first, i really liked the storyline, the cinematics were awesome, the graphics and gameplay were great, but SC2 was lacking in a few different areas, First off, LAN, i love playing LAN andStarcraft was one of the only games i played years ago, i have been waiting for Starcraft 2 for a LONG time. I ended up spending $60 on the game the day after it came out. Now i was greatly satisfied at first, i really liked the storyline, the cinematics were awesome, the graphics and gameplay were great, but SC2 was lacking in a few different areas, First off, LAN, i love playing LAN and just hanging out in a room playing PC games with my friends, But i was extremely dissapointed when i found out that for me and 2 of my friends to play LAN we would have to pay $180, on top of that, i am not able to play singleplayer on my laptop unless i make sure to sign in online on my laptop before i take it somewhere (i play SC2 mostly on my desktop), now i understand the need for anti-piracy, but it is getting to the point where it is pissing me off so much that i almost want to go pirate the game, put it on a CD and give it out to all my friends. Because we all know these protections are easily bipassed. Other than that, the multiplayer is great, lots of good custom maps (a lot are very similar to the first Starcraft) The game has almost all the same units, plays almost exactly the same as the first SC but with better graphics and more features for units and buildings, (some of the units look the same as original ones, just renamed example:Dragoon=Stalker) Fun trying to get all the achievments, this game can last hours if you are really into competative RTS games!… Expand
  10. 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
  11. Nirso
    Jan 28, 2011
    10
    Best game ever. Best multiplayer. Blizzard improve the fantastic StarCraft. Batlle.net is a fabulous system, where you can play with your friends or strangers that are in the same level of you.
  12. cory2704
    Feb 8, 2011
    8
    Starcraft 2 was my first game within the starcraft or even warcraft series, and I have to say it instantly became a favorite of mine in the rts genre. Infact after playing countless command and conquer, and supreme commander games you begin to see where other series have tried building upon starcrafts success by using similar gameplay niches. What these other games failed to do in my eyesStarcraft 2 was my first game within the starcraft or even warcraft series, and I have to say it instantly became a favorite of mine in the rts genre. Infact after playing countless command and conquer, and supreme commander games you begin to see where other series have tried building upon starcrafts success by using similar gameplay niches. What these other games failed to do in my eyes was to be daring and escape from standardized gameplay ( yes I understand games like supreme commander are player on a much larger scale but the idea of resource collection and macroing is pretty much identical)

    however after trialling the original starcraft in the aid of this blog I found that the core mechanics of the game hasnâ    … Expand
  13. Goa_uld
    Feb 20, 2011
    0
    The worstest thing in the game is by far, the locked game speed on hard and brutal in campaign and the forced default high game speeds. This make the game annoying and boring, ruined it. At casual and normal difficulties, the player can control the game speed, but the AI is not strong enough to be a challenge. On hard or brutal, the AI is a challenge even for skilled players, but theThe worstest thing in the game is by far, the locked game speed on hard and brutal in campaign and the forced default high game speeds. This make the game annoying and boring, ruined it. At casual and normal difficulties, the player can control the game speed, but the AI is not strong enough to be a challenge. On hard or brutal, the AI is a challenge even for skilled players, but the micromanagement is impossible at such speeds, so, the game become one arcade game, not a RTS. Idem on multiplayer, players just rush, so, we cannot see here great tactical and strategic abilities, only fast button push (the player who have a better computer, a more responsive keyboard and mouse is in great advantage from start) The designed by default hotkeys-based gameplay make the game experience more sluggish, and frustrating, not more smoothly. The mass cast abiltities lack entirely, also many players regrets the units from Starcraft I and Broodwar. For that causes, Starcraft II, despite the 3D graphic and other improvements, is very far from SC I and Broodwar at their time. Somebody from the game-stuff imposed with obstinacy a wrong personal vision about to way to play the game, and from that point are resulted all game failures and lack of game joy for many players. The game have good parts too, and other bad parts too, but even just for the reasons mentioned above the game deserve the score 0!… Expand
  14. pro7otype
    Mar 7, 2011
    8
    This game is solid throughout. Good storyline and great cutscenes in the single player, a good feel to the game in the multiplayer. Great soundtrack and effects. Graphics are reasonably good, but they lack the style and panache of Warhammer 40K's Dawn of War series in my opinion. If you are a Starcraft fanboy you are going to love this, especially all the matchmaking options built into theThis game is solid throughout. Good storyline and great cutscenes in the single player, a good feel to the game in the multiplayer. Great soundtrack and effects. Graphics are reasonably good, but they lack the style and panache of Warhammer 40K's Dawn of War series in my opinion. If you are a Starcraft fanboy you are going to love this, especially all the matchmaking options built into the game, but if you are merely someone who loves good RTS games, you will enjoy this, but you will also see some of its flaws as well, namely: Confused, somewhat messy looking unit models (especially for Terrans) and very little in the way of sense of humour or gimmicks to keep you interested. This is a Solid RTS game through and through.… Expand
  15. Darkwing
    Mar 8, 2011
    5
    There are some elements that Blizzard did improve on which is the maps and competitive play than some elements that Blizzard either made things worse or kept the same. The good parts is the map creation tool. That is right you can make neat maps, modes or if someone did World of Starcraft. The competitive play is there for the E-sport scene. Now the bad parts of this game. There is littleThere are some elements that Blizzard did improve on which is the maps and competitive play than some elements that Blizzard either made things worse or kept the same. The good parts is the map creation tool. That is right you can make neat maps, modes or if someone did World of Starcraft. The competitive play is there for the E-sport scene. Now the bad parts of this game. There is little to no innovation in this game. It's basically Starcraft 1.5. At least add something different or hindrance to the normal get ass and resources. Look at the transition from WC 2 to WC 3, Blizzard added Hero units but in this game it's just Starcraft 1.5 nothing more or less. The single player story is boring and well it sucks blatantly. Even the use of Nova was felt like it was just there for the game instead of being involved in the story. As for Battle.net 2.0 it's really bad. It's hard to navigate and what is worse is that it's an closed off community. Battle.net 1.0 got everything right and more. So in all Blizzard taken 5-6 steps back while taking 2 steps forward.… Expand
  16. Bohdan
    Mar 10, 2011
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. CelkovÄ… Expand
  17. 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
  18. iamthewizard2
    Apr 28, 2011
    7
    I was a huge huge fan of the starcraft 1 series and expected big things from starcraft 2. in the end, it didnt live up to its hype. the story was predictable. the characters hollow. the plot timing was bad. the voice acting average....but worst of all it was very very cliche. dont get me wrong...i still have hope in blizzard but i think their quality is starting to degrade here.
  19. yarr
    Apr 10, 2011
    7
    I went in with high hopes for this one, which were somewhat fulfilled, and somewhat not. On one hand, you have just the standard RTS campaign, and the other you have fully fleshed out multiplayer and modding. I should have guessed though that the overall experience would be a tweaked and graphically updated Starcraft: Brood War, but I didn't. Honestly I'm glad that Blizzard went to greatI went in with high hopes for this one, which were somewhat fulfilled, and somewhat not. On one hand, you have just the standard RTS campaign, and the other you have fully fleshed out multiplayer and modding. I should have guessed though that the overall experience would be a tweaked and graphically updated Starcraft: Brood War, but I didn't. Honestly I'm glad that Blizzard went to great lengths to get what seems to be a very extensive multiplayer portion of the game down, this being, leagues, ranks, stats tracking, and so forth. But, the problem I had with the multiplayer is the fact that it feels like a math problem, that's right, a math problem. If you don't do "x," in "y," window of time then you lose, it's often very frustrating and a tedious experience for even the more experienced. Although, I might add that there are people that LOVE this formula, and this is the game for them! Albeit, I am not one of them.… Expand
  20. hensothor
    Apr 19, 2011
    10
    Lives up to its namesake. I'd say more, but really, 'nuff said. It didn't have to do anything more. The game has the classic gameplay that everyone has grown to love, over a decade while also innovating into a new metagame. This game will last a long time.
  21. Jman5
    Apr 20, 2011
    10
    Having played it for the last 8 months, Starcraft II is a phenomenal game that is a worthy successor to SC1. For fans of Real-Time-Strategy games, this is a must buy. Blizzard does an excellent job of making the game easy to pick up but incredibly hard to master. The most daunting aspect for any buyer is jumping into the multiplayer scene. Many of the players are extremely skilled so itHaving played it for the last 8 months, Starcraft II is a phenomenal game that is a worthy successor to SC1. For fans of Real-Time-Strategy games, this is a must buy. Blizzard does an excellent job of making the game easy to pick up but incredibly hard to master. The most daunting aspect for any buyer is jumping into the multiplayer scene. Many of the players are extremely skilled so it can be discouraging when faced against these people. Blizzard has tried hard to create a robust match making system so players are placed against people of similar skill. For the most part they have succeeded, but there are still plenty of gamers who abuse loopholes to match against beginners.

    If you are looking for a well designed RTS that will no doubt maintain a robust community for years to come, Starcraft 2 is right for you.    … Expand
  22. Crux
    Apr 26, 2011
    10
    Although the game doesn't have the level of polish I would expect from a game of this caliber, it is still incredibly good. I enjoyed the campaign, but really like the focus on multiplayer play. I never got into the first game's multiplayer, but have played many other RTS online, and can say that it is very refreshing to see the level of balance and uniqueness in the units in this game.Although the game doesn't have the level of polish I would expect from a game of this caliber, it is still incredibly good. I enjoyed the campaign, but really like the focus on multiplayer play. I never got into the first game's multiplayer, but have played many other RTS online, and can say that it is very refreshing to see the level of balance and uniqueness in the units in this game. Custom maps keep the game fresh, and I have no major complaints since it came out. Easily the best RTS I have ever played.

    My final score: 9.5/10    … Expand
  23. Zealloux
    May 18, 2011
    10
    Awesome multiplayer, awesome graphics, and awesome RTS gameplay. Challenging gameplay (multiplayer) allows for long periods of game time. Modern port allows for perseverance of the series. It's constantly being updated and has an unlimited amounts of maps (with custom maps). Most importantly it's fun and addictive!
  24. 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.
  25. Acidosis
    Jun 19, 2011
    8
    Despite the game looking identical to Starcraft when graphics are turned to the lowest settings, just so you know. The development of race's units in this game disappoint me, this is because the lore and race feeling doesn't match at all. Protoss is suppose to be an advance alien race with unmatched technology and yes blizzard did follow the whole Protoss is expensive, slow and powerful inDespite the game looking identical to Starcraft when graphics are turned to the lowest settings, just so you know. The development of race's units in this game disappoint me, this is because the lore and race feeling doesn't match at all. Protoss is suppose to be an advance alien race with unmatched technology and yes blizzard did follow the whole Protoss is expensive, slow and powerful in the first Starcraft but in Starcraft 2 Protoss races seems to be having some sort of recession. Its grand highly advance technological ships are the worst among the three races as it does average damage and doesn't tank well due to the whole rock, paper, scissors armor system implemented. For the Zerg, in Starcraft 2 Zerg has lost its evil feeling and that drones and overlord looks damn pretty cute and its trademark unit their Hydralisk unit has become nothing more than worthless, Terran in Starcraft 2 seems to have when crazy on their research and remove units which are not suppose to remove and adding units which will never be used. Also constant "nerfing" of siege tank makes a tank firepower as powerful as a alien claw....like come on, a tank fire as good as an alien scratch? As much as i enjoy Starcraft 2, i do feel that the whole rock, paper, scissors armor system did spoil the game. It isn't no longer about strategy and attacking but instead it is about waiting and defending then countering back with enemies weakness which could turn veteran's off like me. Starcraft 2 has also became so user friendly that even four old can play it which is a joke. Despite all the criticism, i would say i do still enjoy playing the game because after all, i waited for also 10 years for the game.… Expand
  26. 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
  27. 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
  28. 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
  29. 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
  30. 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.
  31. 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
  32. 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.
  33. 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
  34. 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
  35. 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!
  36. 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
  37. 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 !
  38. 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.
  39. 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.
  40. 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
  41. 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
  42. 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
  43. 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.
  44. 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
  45. 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
  46. 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.
  47. 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)!
  48. 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.
  49. blackbrrd
    Jul 11, 2012
    8
    Starcraft 2 is the best of it's genre, but the focus is relatively narrow. It's more or less entirely skill based when it comes to online 1v1 play which is very impressive. I didn't think the campaign was that good though.
  50. DrBuzzKill
    Aug 5, 2012
    0
    Starcarft 2 WoL, has a good story. The always online DRM is a very bad idea and I hate it very much! The only good thing starcraft had going for it was the custom maps. And now even that has been killed off thanks to bean counters at Blizzard. Thanks you greed corporate AssHats! The only reason I am giving at a low score is because of the replay ability factor is low. This game gets veryStarcarft 2 WoL, has a good story. The always online DRM is a very bad idea and I hate it very much! The only good thing starcraft had going for it was the custom maps. And now even that has been killed off thanks to bean counters at Blizzard. Thanks you greed corporate AssHats! The only reason I am giving at a low score is because of the replay ability factor is low. This game gets very boring after you beat it a few times. I hate the online play and I hate the lack of good maps due to the fact that the Editor is very limited now compared to what it was ones before. So this piece of trash gets a very nice 0 out of 10 from me! You failed yet again Blizzard!… Expand
  51. faceless-1
    Nov 24, 2013
    9
    Starcraft 2 is really a great game. Story mode is really great and multiplayer is old Starcraft with better controls. I was really hoping for some new race, but in the end it does not matter and old races are enough.
  52. Mordread
    Oct 10, 2012
    9
    Just what I wanted from the sequel to Starcraft, this installment is basically the old game with new graphics and a few minor improvements. The campaign isn't that great but the multiplayer is good fun especially if you got friends who play. The worst part about this game is the terrible match making and ranking system... as with all Blizzard games your rank means nothing and hidden matchJust what I wanted from the sequel to Starcraft, this installment is basically the old game with new graphics and a few minor improvements. The campaign isn't that great but the multiplayer is good fun especially if you got friends who play. The worst part about this game is the terrible match making and ranking system... as with all Blizzard games your rank means nothing and hidden match making value is all that matters which is annoying. The ranking system promotes time played and not skill as with all Blizzards games unfortunately. Still a good game though but I am very much against the multiple releases for the different campaigns and am not so sure if I will get the expansions. The campaign is not really worth the cost of the game. If multiplayer is not your thing, there are much better games then this for you.… Expand
  53. Marmalade
    Sep 29, 2012
    8
    I played the original Starcraft and spent many late nights playing, only to be made aware of how long I was playing by the sun coming in through the window. LOL! I was very impressed with the quality of this game. The updated graphics retain the quality and feel of the original and the addition of achievements and portraits give you some added incentive to keep playing in Multiplayer.I played the original Starcraft and spent many late nights playing, only to be made aware of how long I was playing by the sun coming in through the window. LOL! I was very impressed with the quality of this game. The updated graphics retain the quality and feel of the original and the addition of achievements and portraits give you some added incentive to keep playing in Multiplayer. Fortunately, Blizzard gives new players of the franchise several flashbacks of what happened in the original game, so you won't be completely lost. If you get bored with multiplayer, there are many player-made arcade versions of the game that are high quality and ingeniously made. My only gripe is the cheating in the multiplayer leagues - diamond/platinum players who play professionally deliberately qualify for lower leagues so they can farm portraits and achievements, so it makes it more difficult for people in the bronze/silver leagues to progress as far as standings/achievements go, but hopefully that will end once these players with insane talent get their achievements and move on. LOL! Overall, a fantastic game.… Expand
  54. Necro321
    Oct 1, 2012
    7
    The game was clearly improved on some parts, but the idea for a forced online gameplay and the lack of "computer" enemies like it used to be on Starcraft 1, make this game really annoying to play. The missions are fun and really interesting, the units are new an unique, but the always online to play something else make me put it a 7 as score. It misses a lot of what made Starcraft 1 real fun.
  55. moutsosr
    Dec 12, 2012
    0
    After so many years all, this company, has to offer is better grafics...? This games gentre is Not rts. Its probably fps just because the only the player has to have lighting reflexes. The strategy negligable and is repeat it again and again. Well the funs must be happy because in terms of gameplay nothing have changed. For old school strategists AVOID this game.
  56. Eddard
    Nov 28, 2012
    9
    Starcraft 2 is the sequel of the greatest RTS game in the world. The Expectations on Blizzard were very big. But thes did their Job very well und created the new Star at the RTS-Heaven. I only give 9 of 10 because i don't like the Story-Mode. Starcaft is a Only-Multiplayer-Game
  57. UnderTheSun
    Dec 8, 2012
    9
    Outstanding game, my only complain would be that the campaign is raher short. I'm looking forward the expansion(s). Multi-player gaming would justify the buy on its own.
  58. Toffenuff
    Dec 7, 2012
    8
    First and foremost, I am an avid Starcraft fan and have played the original Starcraft as well as Brood War countless times for many days worth of hours played. That said, I was also a little skeptical at first about how the new Starcraft game would turn out. The campaign was... not as great as I thought it would be. The story was somewhat blah and predictable. As far as presentation andFirst and foremost, I am an avid Starcraft fan and have played the original Starcraft as well as Brood War countless times for many days worth of hours played. That said, I was also a little skeptical at first about how the new Starcraft game would turn out. The campaign was... not as great as I thought it would be. The story was somewhat blah and predictable. As far as presentation and graphics, the game gets an A+ (at least compared to the old Starcraft; in terms of comparisons to other games today, it's about average I'd say). Multiplayer is still fun, but one thing I really did not like was the inability to have local LAN play instead of having to connect to the Blizzard servers all the time. The greatest thing about Starcraft's continued replayability all these years was that you could get a bunch of your buddies together or go to an internet gaming cafe (anywhere besides the US) and play Starcraft on a local network without having to deal with lag or server downtimes or malfunctions. You used to be able to play offline, even though it was supposed to be a online-only experience. Now it appears they've taken away offline play, so that docks more points from the rating. You shouldn't need an internet connection in order to play the game, it's that simple.
    To conclude, I am happy with the game but not as happy as I expected to be. Still would recommend getting this game, and hopefully with Heart of the Swarm they will have made a better game.    … Expand
  59. Medran
    Dec 18, 2012
    0
    The game has several technical issues not related to the actual gameplay. The installer and updater are very complex and bug prone, after my first install off dvd, the game auto updates. However the auto update is huge and if it fails mid way your install may be broken to the point where you have to uninstall. The uninstall will fail as the updater is a background process that you willThe game has several technical issues not related to the actual gameplay. The installer and updater are very complex and bug prone, after my first install off dvd, the game auto updates. However the auto update is huge and if it fails mid way your install may be broken to the point where you have to uninstall. The uninstall will fail as the updater is a background process that you will have to quit using the task manager, this auto updater also installs to a location on your hard disk other than the one you tell starcraft to install to. Your best bet is to install from the weblink provided by Blizzard, however that requires several hours and a good internet connection as the game is quite big. Which brings me to my second point that since you are unable to play the game without internet you can forget about sitting in the yard with your laptop, or playing it in the summer cottage. This also has the implication that you can't borrow or trade your 60$ game to a friend after you are done playing it. The good news for all this is if you happen to loose your disk you can download the game from blizzard, however I can't say I've EVER lost a DVD I paid for. A good game wrapped in very brittle and overbearing installers and drms, in the end I spent just as much time installing as I did playing.

    Lets talk a bit more about the game, it really feels like starcraft 1 with slightly improved graphics. SC2 completely misses all the great game play advances other RTS's have made in the last 15 years. Graphically you need at minimum the recommended graphics card to play the game, I have something slightly below the recommended and it looks terrible. This is due to the shadows, I can have all settings maxed out, but as soon as shadows go from low to medium the game is choppy(20-30fps). The low shadow quality runs fast but has horrendously poor quality. Rise of Nations looks better on an old computer than Starcraft does on my much newer computer.

    I had high hopes for this game as the first Starcraft had groundbreaking game play and graphics for the time, so many other RTS's have come since then and made valuable additions to the genre, SC2 cannot hold a candle to them and I am very disappointing.    … Expand
  60. coldshot27
    Jan 14, 2013
    6
    The gameplay itself is probably a 8-9 and not that bad. I got on to give this a six because I have an eyefinity setup and they purposefully limit the res to 1080p. C'mon Blizzard, we spend $400 extra for these setups and you won't even let us play against the AI with triple monitors. You should be able to register what type of play you want to do; stats accumulation or just fun. IfThe gameplay itself is probably a 8-9 and not that bad. I got on to give this a six because I have an eyefinity setup and they purposefully limit the res to 1080p. C'mon Blizzard, we spend $400 extra for these setups and you won't even let us play against the AI with triple monitors. You should be able to register what type of play you want to do; stats accumulation or just fun. If it's just for fun then you can have control over your gave without this psychotic big brother monitoring. Ridiculous.… Expand
  61. jackhunter
    Feb 15, 2014
    6
    Major probleme of this episode is the lack of identity of creativity. Story didnt have the charm of Starcraft 1, and looked like a cliché story of a american hero saving the world. Also, gameplay should have been more easy and casual friendly. Starcraft 2 asks to much commitment to be enjoyedin multiplayer, and fails to attract average players. This is why people stop playing it afterMajor probleme of this episode is the lack of identity of creativity. Story didnt have the charm of Starcraft 1, and looked like a cliché story of a american hero saving the world. Also, gameplay should have been more easy and casual friendly. Starcraft 2 asks to much commitment to be enjoyedin multiplayer, and fails to attract average players. This is why people stop playing it after finishing campaign.… Expand
  62. torstein88
    Jun 29, 2013
    1
    Starcraft 2 was a geat game at the beginning, could run max graphic, then the updates started, cant play it anymore now at lowest graphic. So at start i would give this game a solid 8, now i give it 1
  63. cwilder06
    Dec 2, 2013
    7
    I generally wait a long time after playing a game to write reviews. As with anything in life, I think time can change the opinion dramatically. Starcraft 2 is one such game where, unfortunately, it just does not stand up well upon further reflection. Failing to do anything memorable to change the RTS landscape, and in general providing a fun but not engrossing single player campaign, theI generally wait a long time after playing a game to write reviews. As with anything in life, I think time can change the opinion dramatically. Starcraft 2 is one such game where, unfortunately, it just does not stand up well upon further reflection. Failing to do anything memorable to change the RTS landscape, and in general providing a fun but not engrossing single player campaign, the game does little more than represent a fine example of using an established formula well. It's a good game, but when compared to other games that have moved their respective genres forward (and thus warrant higher ratings) Starcraft represents more of the same. Assuming you like what has come so far, you'll like this. If you don't, this will not change your mind.… Expand
  64. zombiechan
    Sep 29, 2014
    9
    A really good game, a sequel to my favorite rts, they kept the competitive feel while adding more features making the game a lot better than the one in my past. It's probably the only game from Blizzard that I had zero issues with.
  65. DREST
    Sep 3, 2015
    10
    Great graphics and beautiful cutscenes, great gameplay, great campaign missions and great and enjoyable continuation to the story from the first one. It's really a great game.
  66. jelikey
    Sep 10, 2015
    10
    I was bought this for my twenty seventh birthday by my friends and initially I thought the mechanics were weak - throw down some 'rax and hold 'a'... follow this up with an all in at 5 or 6... This tactic was applied by and against us successfully until we became able to defend and give a proper account.
  67. WarcraftAwesome
    Nov 20, 2014
    10
    First of all, this game is probably one of the best games I've ever played. Along with its multiplayer, competitions as well as real time strategy, it's no wonder it is one of the best Real Time Strategy games in the market.
  68. Robb-Fury
    Jan 12, 2015
    9
    Well then where do I start? Do you like StarCraft? Do you like Blizzard? Do you like RTS? Are you korean? Are you human? If you answered yes to any of these questions then buy this game right away! It takes everything the original Starcraft did and cranked it to 11. The graphics while not Crysis are still stunning the gameplay runs smooth as silk, even if you average 400 APM. The story isWell then where do I start? Do you like StarCraft? Do you like Blizzard? Do you like RTS? Are you korean? Are you human? If you answered yes to any of these questions then buy this game right away! It takes everything the original Starcraft did and cranked it to 11. The graphics while not Crysis are still stunning the gameplay runs smooth as silk, even if you average 400 APM. The story is magnificent. the multiplayer is still a god amongst games. (Even when you get pwned by Koreans). There isn't much I can say about this game that hasn't been said, sure there are a few balance issues (Brotoss, Marauders etc..) that should just add to the challenge and make you get good. In conclusion to this short review i would say buy it because it is probably one of the best games in the world right now this review has been made short purely because I wouldn't do this game any justice, just play it and see what I mean.… Expand
  69. Lolzorz11
    Apr 29, 2015
    10
    Test review please ignore Test review please ignore Test review please ignore Test review please ignore Test review please ignore Test review please ignore Test review please ignore
  70. Wiebe
    Feb 25, 2020
    7
    I played competitively for some time, but stopped because it is too much about the speed at which you can click and not enough about strategy & tactics. The game also looks outdated, comical and its single player campaign was too simple and not engaging compared to the original.
  71. Thecod796
    Nov 12, 2015
    10
    this game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAERthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRRthis game is so returded MINECR%AFT IS BETTAER RRRRRRRR… Expand
  72. ThecriticGoD
    Mar 7, 2016
    9
    The proof that RTS games can still be good nowadays. It's not as good as Starcraft : broodwar, gameplay-wise or story-wise but it's definetely really cool visually, very entertaining and it's a lot of fun to learn to master all 3 races, also the multiplayer is extremely competitive.
  73. Broyax
    Apr 17, 2017
    0
    Un RTS qui a des années et des années de retard dans sa jouabilité totalement éculée (on dirait Warcraft, copié sur Dune 2), sans compter sa technique très faible, imite ringarde et insultante. Il n'a que ses belles cinématiques pour lui à dire vrai et ses voix VF, sympas les voix VF. La musique peut-être...?

    Mais le pompon, c'est le pire DRM qui soit : le DRM Blizzard. Parfois on peut    Un RTS qui a des années et des années de retard dans sa jouabilité totalement éculée (on dirait Warcraft, copié sur Dune 2), sans compter sa technique très faible, imite ringarde et insultante. Il n'a que ses belles cinématiques pour lui à dire vrai et ses voix VF, sympas les voix VF. La musique peut-être...?

    Mais le pompon, c'est le pire DRM qui soit : le DRM Blizzard. Parfois on peut jouer hors ligne, parfois on ne peut tout simplement pas. Il faut se taper une superchiée de patches et ensuite attendre que l'installeur Blizzard réorganise et réoptimise le Starcraft II pour gagner soit-disant de la place (!) sur le disque dur (sic!), ce qui prend entre 15 et 60 (!) minutes. Mais de qui se moque-t'on ?...

    J'ai fait ce que j'avais à faire : j'ai cliqué sur "désinstaller". Pas de temps à perdre avec un éditeur qui fait n'importe quoi et surtout de la merde.    … Expand
  74. infestedasuka
    Mar 3, 2017
    10
    People who criticize Starcraft 2 probably lack the ability to play it. The learning curve is huge. The ingenious way in which the metagame was developed by players and developers is amazing. Balancing has always been an issue but they put work into it. In the end, someone will always complain about this and that. The story was amazing, although somethings could have been better developed.People who criticize Starcraft 2 probably lack the ability to play it. The learning curve is huge. The ingenious way in which the metagame was developed by players and developers is amazing. Balancing has always been an issue but they put work into it. In the end, someone will always complain about this and that. The story was amazing, although somethings could have been better developed. Overall, a must have game.… Expand
  75. FabricioNery
    Mar 7, 2022
    10
    The best game of its kind, with a very good story and captivating characters in a strategy game. With excellent balance between troops
  76. Nikolas_super
    Mar 5, 2022
    0
    Отличная игра, с хорошим сюжетом и графикой.
    Поставил плохую оценку, так как разработчики этой игры влезли в политику!
  77. KyleG
    Jul 29, 2010
    10
    Balanced multiplayer (people playing otherwise should give some time to adjust to the different races' gameplay styles before making sweeping claims about balance) and an incredibly deep pool of available strategies for each race leads to one of the best multiplayer experiences in years. Blizzard did it again. Flawless. I will definitely be playing this for years to come.
  78. Roman
    Jul 29, 2010
    10
    This game is absolutely amazing, they campaign is great and the multiplayer is outstanding.
  79. CMueller
    Jul 29, 2010
    10
    I am running a system that is almost 7 years old with this game. I have to run with some lower setting, but tearing and lag seem to still be minimal. As a huge fan of the previous title I am glad to see Blizzard has made the gorgeous game accessible even to players with a smaller budget.
  80. AdamP.
    Jul 29, 2010
    10
    Perfect RTS game, amazing sequel! The single player is a lot better then in the first game, even the multiplayer got some new modes like 3v3 and 4v4 (finally some dedicated maps for these modes besides FFA maps). Great cinematics, awesome cutscenes on the Hyperion, insane map editor. Best Blizzard game so far and best RTS in years! Can't wait for the expansions. EPIC!
  81. Jonny
    Jul 29, 2010
    10
    I must agree that the 12 year wait has not been wasted. For the first time ever, I am TRULY impressed in the detail, sounds, missions, etc. A couple of the cinematics were so epic, I had shivers and goosebumps...A first for me, and I've been playing games all my life. It is the most polished, ready-to-go game on release I've ever experienced, and the wait and price ell worth the I must agree that the 12 year wait has not been wasted. For the first time ever, I am TRULY impressed in the detail, sounds, missions, etc. A couple of the cinematics were so epic, I had shivers and goosebumps...A first for me, and I've been playing games all my life. It is the most polished, ready-to-go game on release I've ever experienced, and the wait and price ell worth the admission. And with future patches and additions, it's only going to get better.… Expand
  82. Maladjester
    Jul 29, 2010
    10
    I would like to say something to all the people rating this game a 0: If you thought Blizzard would "reinvent the RTS genre" or other such thing, you weren't paying attention. History shows their strategy very well. What they do is polish an existing concept....and polish it, and polish it, and polish it. It's what they did in 1998 with StarCraft 1, and again with WoW, and now I would like to say something to all the people rating this game a 0: If you thought Blizzard would "reinvent the RTS genre" or other such thing, you weren't paying attention. History shows their strategy very well. What they do is polish an existing concept....and polish it, and polish it, and polish it. It's what they did in 1998 with StarCraft 1, and again with WoW, and now again with StarCraft 2. I've got no complaints. What game were you expecting?… Expand
  83. MichaelH
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    A perfect RTS. Very similar to the original, and for a good reason. The balancing is near-perfect, any pro would say the same. And it runs beautifully on nearly any machine. Except for Gary K's 1999 Windows ME antique. I have it running at low on my friend's laptop; Pentium 4, integrated graphics, and 1gb of ram. 40fps. On MY computer (high settings, 100fps), the game looks A perfect RTS. Very similar to the original, and for a good reason. The balancing is near-perfect, any pro would say the same. And it runs beautifully on nearly any machine. Except for Gary K's 1999 Windows ME antique. I have it running at low on my friend's laptop; Pentium 4, integrated graphics, and 1gb of ram. 40fps. On MY computer (high settings, 100fps), the game looks AMAZING. Beautiful. Buy this.… Expand
  84. MLittle
    Jul 31, 2010
    10
    If the quality of this game extends into its two expansions, this will be the finest game in its genre. The multiplayer aspect of the game is so enthralling that I fully expect to spend countless hours working my way up to diamond league, and then staying there.
  85. JonH
    Jul 31, 2010
    10
    Before complaining about the lack of LAN, the lack of a zerg and protoss campaign, etc, just everything that you're getting for your $60 must be considered. You get a full fledged terran campaign which is not only longer than the original game's camapign, but also of much higher quality and production values. You get a map editor which gives you almost the same level of freedom Before complaining about the lack of LAN, the lack of a zerg and protoss campaign, etc, just everything that you're getting for your $60 must be considered. You get a full fledged terran campaign which is not only longer than the original game's camapign, but also of much higher quality and production values. You get a map editor which gives you almost the same level of freedom that the developers had when they designed the game; you could practically write the next expansion yourself if you wanted to. And you get a well-balanced multiplayer with fantastic, unique units, both new and old, with a skill curve much more friendly for beginners and still impossibly high for experts. The game may not be completely perfect, but it's pretty damn close, and it's no question as to whether or not a game with virtually endless and enjoyable replayability is worth your $60.… Expand
  86. VicT
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    After finishing the campaign and having some experience with the multiplayer, after being through the epic story developed carefully over the years and seeing many magnificent battles, I give this a 9.5 I just rounded it up into a ten. It loses half a point for not having some of the great units in the multi-player, but I hope they return in the later expansions.
  87. GazzaC.
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    What can i say.!!..ive never played the first Starcraft but I do love RTS games and this is without a doubt one of the finest and fully deserving of the high marks its getting. Take no note of Gary K's comment he must have poor pc if it crawls as the min specs on this game are failry low..and its far from unablanced!!,..if you like RTS games..then get this..its awesome!
  88. JonnyT
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    Fantastic...this game is the best RTS to come out in years! I love the old-school feel to it. Blizzard was smart not to change the formula. I wish we could get other 'old' games done like this. Imagine Stronghold redone...or Warcraft with detail like this...simply amazing.
  89. tp
    Jul 31, 2010
    10
    Best freakin RTS game ever made. If theres one game thats worth 60$, is this. Hell, i'd pay full price for this game even if it only had online multiplayer because thats where all the meat and all the content are at. Multiplayer is where millions will still be playing 10 years from now. For me, the story mode was a bonus. One epic hell of a bonus indeed. And remember, before saying Best freakin RTS game ever made. If theres one game thats worth 60$, is this. Hell, i'd pay full price for this game even if it only had online multiplayer because thats where all the meat and all the content are at. Multiplayer is where millions will still be playing 10 years from now. For me, the story mode was a bonus. One epic hell of a bonus indeed. And remember, before saying this is just 1/3 of a game, 1) blizzard has always made expansion packs. No one complained that blizzard was making a half of a game when they released brood war and the frozen throne and lord of destruction did they? The only difference is that they announced the expansions ahead of time. Complaining that wings of liberty is 1/3 of a game is like telling Lucas that starwars episode I is 1/3 of a movie. 2) This game has 30 missions, the same amount as starcraft 1, so it has as much if not more content than the first game 3) starcraft 1 when it came out was 60$. It cost blizzard a tiny fraction of what it cost to make starcraft 2 today which some say was about 100 million. 4) people who say the expansions are going to cost 60$ each are morons who should be ignored.… Expand
  90. MichaelS
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    Starcraft 2 is a what RTSs were 10 years ago, without the conveniences of squad systems that streamlined combat, or the get out there and explore the map encouraging systems like control points or reinforcement zones. It has the same heavy focus on base building that the original one did, and yet, it all works together remarkably well. Starcraft II is an absolutely fantastic RTS game Starcraft 2 is a what RTSs were 10 years ago, without the conveniences of squad systems that streamlined combat, or the get out there and explore the map encouraging systems like control points or reinforcement zones. It has the same heavy focus on base building that the original one did, and yet, it all works together remarkably well. Starcraft II is an absolutely fantastic RTS game that's lodged solidly in a kind of old school game play we haven't seen in years.… Expand
  91. ZaneB
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    Awesome game!! So addictive! My advice to those of you that are new to RTSs' and Starcraft's uber competitive multiplayer: Keep playing and you will get pretty good. Watch pro gamers on youtube for tips. It is EXTREMELY rewarding to win in multiplayer. Now, I'm gonna get back to playing Starcraft II
  92. JoelM
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    Starcraft II is just what the RTS genre needed. A shining example of how sequels need not be worse than the original. The polish and attention to detail in this game is apparant and Blizzard has managed to add so many features that even the most content starved gamer will be kept satisfied for months to come.
  93. RemyM
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    This is the best RTS ever. It kept the original feeling from the original StarCraft, yet improved on it. The Single Player Campaign is epic, can't wait for the expansions so I can play the Zerg and Protoss campaigns as well. Blizzard definitely made the right choice by splitting this into three games. They could never have told such an epic story if the 29 missions had to be divided This is the best RTS ever. It kept the original feeling from the original StarCraft, yet improved on it. The Single Player Campaign is epic, can't wait for the expansions so I can play the Zerg and Protoss campaigns as well. Blizzard definitely made the right choice by splitting this into three games. They could never have told such an epic story if the 29 missions had to be divided over all the races. Multi-player is also extremely fun. Granted, it does annoy me that no LAN option is present, but not enough to give it a lower rating. Besides, Battle.net works perfectly. I can play even from behind a strict firewall, something that didn't work in SC1.… Expand
  94. JoshB
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    As a huge fan of the original Starcraft, I was very underwhelmed while playing the multi-player beta for SC2. I was not all that excited about it, but still had the game pre-ordered. Well I'm about halfway through the campaign and my excitement for the two expansions is through the roof. It's even renewed my interest in the multi-player. I've played other RTS games since As a huge fan of the original Starcraft, I was very underwhelmed while playing the multi-player beta for SC2. I was not all that excited about it, but still had the game pre-ordered. Well I'm about halfway through the campaign and my excitement for the two expansions is through the roof. It's even renewed my interest in the multi-player. I've played other RTS games since playing Starcraft, my first, but none have ever measured up to SC, and SC2 is light years beyond the original.… Expand
  95. ChadO
    Jul 30, 2010
    10
    I hate Blizzard as a company, the way they drag things out, lie about release dates, scrap projects with little explanation, and milk products for every dime they are worth... And yet I keep coming back for more. Starcraft II is another perfect example of why Blizzard can make the best PC games in every genre they dabble in. It makes me sick, but #$#$ if I don't love Jim Raynor and I hate Blizzard as a company, the way they drag things out, lie about release dates, scrap projects with little explanation, and milk products for every dime they are worth... And yet I keep coming back for more. Starcraft II is another perfect example of why Blizzard can make the best PC games in every genre they dabble in. It makes me sick, but #$#$ if I don't love Jim Raynor and this new work of art Blizzard labeled an RTS.… Expand
  96. JoeJ
    Aug 1, 2010
    10
    With all that hype building up to Starcraft2 over this last decade, it puts a tremendous amount of stress on a game
  97. DanB.
    Aug 1, 2010
    10
    This game was sick. everything I could have hoped for. Many people that didn't like it wanted elements from other genres added in. Guess what? It's not an RPG/RTS or an FPS/RTS.
  98. ConstantineP
    Aug 1, 2010
    8
    Actually I'd give it 85%. It's a great game, but the hype was so big it just couldn't live up to the expectations. All that talk about EPIC story and such - never happened. Story is weak and derivative: ALL of it we already have read/watched/played before in some other book/movie/game. Starcraft got lots of nice touches and fun things and perks and tweaks and so on, but Actually I'd give it 85%. It's a great game, but the hype was so big it just couldn't live up to the expectations. All that talk about EPIC story and such - never happened. Story is weak and derivative: ALL of it we already have read/watched/played before in some other book/movie/game. Starcraft got lots of nice touches and fun things and perks and tweaks and so on, but truth be told it's not as fun second time. Blizzard just took way too long with the release.… Expand
  99. LukeH
    Aug 1, 2010
    10
    CJ Henry, who gave a score of one, is being childish. He clearly isn't rating the game for what it is, but up against some ideal he formed - holding a grudge! The game is awesome.
  100. RichardD.
    Aug 1, 2010
    10
    Brilliant mission variety, long campaign (its proabably longer to play through than all 3 of the original SC campaigns) I don't care abount missing LAN, I can still play the person sitting next to me over battle.net. Fantastic story and even better multiplayer. Blizzard we salute you for making the best RTS of all time!
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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]
See all critic reviews »