This is not "Warcraft" in space! (StarCraft (PC))

Member Name: AnyMinuteNow

Product:	StarCraft (PC)
Date:	14/06/09 (11 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Outstanding gameplay, intriguing storytelling, fantastic multiplayer mode.

Disadvantages: Graphics may seem somewhat dated by today's standards

To describe it as a real time strategy game in the vein of "Dune" or "Command and Conquer" would be a huge disservice to this game, which redefined the genre with a mixture of expert and involved storytelling, groundbreaking gameplay, and rich design.

Starcraft's story arc ushers the player through three campaigns, during each of which the player controls a different race: warlike Terran; hive-mind Zerg; and technologically advanced Protoss. The use of three distinct races enhances the gameplay, with each race employing different units, tactics, and playing styles thus keeping the gameplay fresh and providing the extra challenge of mastery of all three playing styles. There are two main gameplay elements: namely, management of the economy through harvesting of crystals and mining of gas which is then used to pay for buildings, units, and upgrades; and, combat through manipulation of friendly units and encounters with enemy units and buildings. The controls are very simple and intuitive, easy to learn thanks to basic tutorials which are worked into the gameplay of the early missions.

Structuring the game around three distinct campaigns allows Starcraft to employ a story that is very compelling and adds a rich layer to the gaming experience. Intrigue, character development and drama combine to really immerse the player in the game. These are not the flat, uninteresting, 2 dimensional characters familiar from so many games, but rather characters with personal agendas, with personal identities that change and develop over the course of the game. Take, for example, Sarah Kerrigan, whose tragic story leads her from ally to enemy and back to ally again.

While the single player campaign is an absolute joy, Starcraft really comes into its own in the multiplayer mode. Up to 8 players can participate, including a mix of human players and CPUs, and Starcraft's most exciting elements shine through in this mode. There are a variety of modes, including teams, free for alls, capture the flag, etc., but the simplest modes of team-versus-team and free for alls provide the most fun in my opinion. If you're new to Starcraft, get some friends over, set up a LAN, get some snacks and drinks in and get ready for some real-time strategy fun.

I haven't mentioned Starcraft's graphics yet, and when discussing this aspect of the game it is important to remember that the game is over ten years old now. Even so, the simple in-game graphics do the job brilliantly, and even though they may seem primitive by today's standard, they never inhibit the gameplay. The cutscenes are relatively nicely rendered, although they suffer a little from compression, and the animation and textures in the full motion video do feel dated now. Nevertheless, the cutscenes are a pleasure to watch and most players probably won't be too bothered by their somewhat outdated graphics.

To really get the most out of Starcraft it is probably a good idea to invest in the expansion pack, "Brood Wars", as well. Brood Wars adds new units, new characters and three new campaigns to the existing canon. The new units redress some minor balancing issues of the original, for example the Lurker improves the Zerg's ground defence and the Valkyrie strengthens the Terran's air support. The extra units thoroughly enhance the game and as such Brood Wars comes highly recommended. Brood Wars is especially good to breathe new life into the original Starcraft in the unlikely event that you feel you have exhausted the original game.

There's definitely a lot more to be said about Starcraft, but I think to sum up I'll leave you with this little thought: how many other video games do you know of which are also a televised tournament sport?! Seriously: if you haven't played this game, you don't know what you're missing.

Summary: Jacked up and good to go!