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{{SeriesInfobox | image = Logo-StarCraft.png | developer = Blizzard Entertainment | publisher = Blizzard Entertainment | genre = Real-time strategy | perspective = Isometric | setting = Science-fiction | platforms = Microsoft Windows,Mac OS,macOS,Nintendo 64 }} '''StarCraft''' is a [[military science fiction]] [[media franchise]] created by [[Chris Metzen]] and James Phinney, and owned by [[Blizzard Entertainment]]. The series centers on a galactic struggle for dominance between three species—the adaptable and mobile [[Terran (StarCraft)|Terrans]], the [[insectoid]] [[Zerg]], and the enigmatic [[Protoss]]—in a distant part of the [[Milky Way]] galaxy known as the Koprulu Sector at the beginning of the 26th century. The series debuted with the [[video game]] ''[[StarCraft]]'' in 1998. Since then it has grown to include a number of other games as well as eight [[novelization]]s, two ''[[Amazing Stories]]'' articles, a [[StarCraft: The Board Game|board game]], and other licensed merchandise such as collectible statues and toys. Blizzard Entertainment began planning ''StarCraft'' in 1995, with a development team led by Metzen and Phinney. The game debuted at [[E3 1996]], and uses a modified ''[[Warcraft II]]'' [[game engine]]. ''StarCraft'' also marked the creation of Blizzard Entertainment's film department; the game introduced high quality cinematics integral to the storyline of the series. Most of the original development team for ''StarCraft'' returned to work on the game's official expansion pack, ''[[StarCraft: Brood War|Brood War]]''; the game's development began shortly after ''StarCraft'' was released. In 2001, ''[[StarCraft: Ghost]]'' began development under [[Nihilistic Software]]. Unlike the previous [[real-time strategy]] games in the series, ''Ghost'' was to be a [[stealth game|stealth]]-[[action game]]. After three years of development, work on the game was postponed in 2004. Development of ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty|StarCraft II]]'' began in 2003; the game was later announced on 19 May 2007 and was released on July 27, 2010. The original game and its official expansion have been praised as one of the benchmark real-time strategy games of its time. The series has gathered a solid following around the world, particularly in South Korea, where professional players and teams participate in matches, earn sponsorships, and compete in televised matches.<ref name="pop">{{Cite web | author = Cho, Kevin| title = Samsung, SK Telecom, Shinhan Sponsor South Korean Alien Killers | work = Bloomberg.com | date = 2006-01-15| url = http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=email_us&refer=asia&sid=a2JvzciDnpB4| accessdate = 2008-08-26 }}</ref> As of 31 May 2007, ''StarCraft'' and ''Brood War'' have sold almost 10 million copies combined.<ref name="msnbc"/> In addition, the series was awarded a star on the [[Walk of Game]] in 2006,<ref>{{Cite web| url = http://www.walkofgame.com/inductees/inductees.html| title = 2006 Walk of Game Inductees| publisher = Metreon | accessdate = 2007-12-20}}</ref> and holds four ''[[Guinness World Records]]'' in the ''[[Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition]]'' of 2008.<ref>{{Cite book|title=[[Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition]]|publisher=Hit Entertainment|year=2008|isbn=9781904994206}}</ref> ==Story== {{see also|Species of StarCraft|Characters of StarCraft|List of locations in the StarCraft series|l3=Locations in the StarCraft series}} The story focuses on the activities of the three species in a part of the [[Milky Way]] known as the Koprulu Sector. Millenia before any of the events of the games, a species known as the [[Xel'Naga]] genetically engineered the [[Protoss]] and later the [[Zerg]] in attempts to create pure beings.<ref name="manualP">{{Cite book| last= Underwood| first=Peter| coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris; Vaughn, Jeffrey| title=[[StarCraft]] (manual)| location=Irvine, Calif. | publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]| year=1998|chapter=Protoss|pages=pages 70–90}}</ref><ref name="manualZ">{{Cite book| last= Underwood| first=Peter| coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris; Vaughn, Jeffrey|title=[[StarCraft]] (manual)| location=Irvine, Calif. | publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]| year=1998|chapter=Zerg|pages=pages 50–69}}</ref> These experiments backfire and the Xel'Naga are largely destroyed by the Zerg.<ref name="manualZ"/> Decades before the beginning of ''StarCraft'' in 2499, the hardline international government of [[Earth]], the [[United Earth Directorate]] (UED), commissions a colonization program as part of a solution to overpopulation. However, the computers automating the colony ships malfunction, propelling the [[Terran (StarCraft)|Terran]] colonists far off course to the edge of Protoss space.<ref name="manualT">{{Cite book| last= Underwood| first=Peter| coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris; Vaughn, Jeffrey|title=[[StarCraft]] (manual)| location=Irvine, Calif. | publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]| year=1998|chapter=Terran|pages=pages 25–49}}</ref> Out of contact with Earth, they form various factions to maintain their interests. Intrigued by the behavior and mentality of the Terrans, the Protoss remain hidden to examine the humans, while protecting them from other threats without their knowledge. However, the Zerg target the Terrans for assimilation to harness their [[psionic]] potential,<ref name="manualZ"/> forcing the Protoss to destroy tainted Terran colonies to contain the Zerg infestation.<ref name="Story1"/> ''StarCraft'' begins just days after the first of these attacks, where the predominant Terran government, the [[Confederacy of Man]], falls into a state of panic as it comes under attack by both the Zerg and the Protoss, in addition to increasing rebel activity led by [[Arcturus Mengsk]] against its rule. The Confederacy eventually succumbs to Mengsk's rebels when they use Confederate technology to lure the Zerg into attacking the Confederate capital, Tarsonis. In the consequent power vacuum, Mengsk crowns himself emperor of a new [[Terran Dominion]]. However, during the assault on Tarsonis, Mengsk allows the Zerg to capture and infest his [[ghost agent|psychic]] second-in-command, [[Sarah Kerrigan]]. This betrayal prompts Mengsk's other commander, [[Jim Raynor]], to desert him with a small army. Having retreated with Kerrigan to their primary hive clusters, the Zerg are assaulted by Protoss forces commanded by [[Tassadar]] and the [[dark templar]] [[Zeratul]]. Through assassinating a Zerg [[cerebrate]], Zeratul inadvertently allows the [[Zerg Overmind|Overmind]] to learn the location of the Protoss homeworld, Aiur. The Overmind quickly launches an invasion to assimilate the Protoss and gain genetic perfection. Pursued by his own people as a heretic for siding with the dark templar, Tassadar returns with Zeratul to Aiur and with the assistance of Raynor and the templar [[Characters of StarCraft#Fenix|Fenix]], Tassadar launches an attack on the Overmind and ultimately sacrifices himself to kill the creature.<ref name="Story1">{{Cite web|url=http://eu.starcraft2.com/features/storysofar.xml|title=The Story So Far: Part 1:''StarCraft''|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|date=2007-11-21|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> In ''Brood War'', the Protoss are now led by Zeratul and [[Artanis (StarCraft)|Artanis]]. They begin to evacuate the surviving population of Aiur to the dark templar homeworld of Shakuras under a fragile alliance between the two untrusting branches of the Protoss. On the Shakuras, they are misled by Kerrigan into attacking the Zerg to advance Kerrigan's quest to securing power over the Zerg. This deception comes after she reveals that a new Overmind has entered incubation. Meanwhile, Earth decides to take action in the sector, sending a fleet to conquer the Terran Dominion and capture the new Overmind. Although successfully taking the Dominion capital Korhal and enslaving the Overmind, the UED's efforts to capture Mengsk are thwarted by a double agent working for Kerrigan, [[Samir Duran]]. Kerrigan, allying with Mengsk, Fenix and Raynor, launches a campaign against the UED, recapturing Korhal. However, she turns against her allies; Fenix and Duke both perish in the ensuing attacks. Kerrigan later blackmails Zeratul into killing the new Overmind, giving her full control over the entire Zerg Swarm. After defeating a retaliatory attack by the Protoss, Dominion and the UED, consequently destroying the last of the UED fleet, Kerrigan and her Zerg broods become the dominant power in the sector.<ref name="Story2">{{Cite web|url=http://eu.starcraft2.com/features/storysofar2.xml|title=The Story So Far: Part 2: The Brood War|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|date=2008-04-16|accessdate=2008-04-16}}</ref> ==Games== [[File:StarCraft CD covers.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The covers of ''StarCraft'', ''Insurrection'', ''Brood War'' and ''Retribution'' (clockwise from the left)]] The ''StarCraft'' series includes a core set of titles which carry the main storyline. These games were released in chronological order, with each new title following on from the events that are depicted in the previous title. A full second game, [[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]], was released on July 27, 2010, taking place 4 years after the end of Brood War. Two expansions, [[Heart of the Swarm]] and [[Legacy of the Void]], are currently planned. All the games in the main series are [[real-time strategy|real-time strategy games]],<ref name="SC GameSpot summary">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft/index.html|title=''StarCraft'' for PC|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-09-06}}</ref><ref name="BW Gamespot summary"/><ref name="SC2 GameSpot summary">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft2/index.html|title=''StarCraft II'' for PC|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-09-06}}</ref> where the player views the events as a military commander for each of the three species. In addition, two spin-off titles have been released; these are authorized expansion packs to the original which focus on other characters and settings based at the same time as the main storyline.<ref name="battlenet faq"/> Like the main series, these two titles are also real-time strategy games. A spin-off, [[StarCraft: Ghost]], which was to be a third person [[action game|action]]-[[stealth game]] was in development, but has been placed on [[development hell|indefinite hiatus]].<ref name="SCG GameSpot Summary">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/gamecube/action/starcraftghost/index.html|title=''StarCraft: Ghost'' for GameCube|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-09-06}}</ref> ===Main series=== ''[[StarCraft]]'', released for [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] on 31 March 1998,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/us/press/10-years-starcraft.html|title=''StarCraft''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s 10-Year Anniversary: A Retrospective|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-03-31}}</ref> is the first video game in the ''StarCraft'' series. A [[science fiction]] real-time strategy game, ''StarCraft'' is set in a distant sector of the Milky Way galaxy. A [[Mac OS]] version of the game was released by [[Blizzard Entertainment]] in March 1999. A [[Nintendo 64]] port including ''StarCraft'', ''Brood War'' and a new secret mission "Resurrection IV"<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzplanet.com/content/732/|title=Starcraft: The Dark Templar Trilogy: Book Two: Shadow Hunters|publisher=Blizzplanet|date=2007-10-27|accessdate=2008-09-09}}</ref> was released in the United States on 13 June 2000.<ref name="SC64 GameSpot">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/n64/strategy/starcraft64/index.html|title=''StarCraft 64'' for N64|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> The game's story revolves around the appearance of two alien races in Terran space, and each race's attempts to survive and adapt over the others. The player assumes three roles through the course of the three campaigns: a [[Confederacy of Man|Confederate]] colonial governor who becomes a revolutionary commander, a Zerg [[cerebrate]] pushing forward the species' doctrine of assimilation, and a Protoss fleet executor tasked with defending the Protoss from the Zerg. ''StarCraft'' soon gained critical acclaim, winning numerous awards,<ref name="blizzard awards">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/inblizz/awards.shtml|title=Awards|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> including being labelled "the best real-time strategy game ever made" and being ranked the seventh best game of all time by [[IGN]] in both 2003 and 2005,<ref name ="popular">{{Cite web | title = IGN's Top 100 Games | publisher = IGN | date = 2005-01-01| url = http://top100.ign.com/2005/001-010.html | accessdate = 2008-08-26 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | author = | title = IGN's Top 100 Games | publisher = IGN | date = 2003-01-01| url = http://top100.ign.com/2003/1-10.html | accessdate = 2008-08-26 }}</ref> and the eleventh best game in 2007.<ref>{{Cite web | title = IGN's Top 100 Games | publisher = IGN | url = http://uk.top100.ign.com/2007/ign_top_game_11.html | date=2007-11-29|accessdate = 2008-09-09 }}</ref> ''[[StarCraft: Brood War]]'' is the official expansion pack for ''StarCraft'', developed by Blizzard Entertainment and [[Saffire (video game developer)|Saffire]]. Released for Windows and Mac OS in the United States on 30 November 1998,<ref name="BW Gamespot summary">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/mac/strategy/starcraftbroodwar/index.html|title=''StarCraft: Brood War'' for MAC|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> the expansion directly continues the events of ''StarCraft''. The expansion's story continues only days after the conclusion of the original game. It starts with the Protoss' struggle to ensure the survival of their species and continues with the intervention of the United Earth Directorate into local Terran affairs. The livelihood of both the Protoss and the previously silent Earth government is then threatened by the ever-increasing power of Sarah Kerrigan and her Zerg broods. In addition, the expansion introduces new features and improvements. A total of seven new units with different functions and abilities are included, the artificial intelligence behavior was modified, new graphical tilesets for terrain were added and the game's [[level editor]] received improved scripting tools to facilitate cut scenes with the in-game [[game engine|engine]]. The expansion received critical praise for fixing various balance issues with the original game,<ref name="BWCVG review">{{Cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=3469|title=PC review: ''StarCraft: Brood War''|publisher=CVG|author=Emery, Daniel|date=2001-08-12|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> development attention on par with that of a full game<ref name="BW GameSpot review">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraftexpansionsetbw/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=tabs&tag=tabs;reviews|title=''StarCraft: Brood War'' for PC review|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|author=Saggeran, Vik|date=1998-12-23|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> and for continuing with single player campaigns that were heavily story-driven.<ref name="BW IGN review">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.mac.ign.com/articles/361/361674p1.html|title=''StarCraft: Brood War'' review|publisher=[[IGN]]|author=Chen, Jeffrey|date=2002-06-07|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]'' is the official sequel to ''StarCraft'' released for Windows and [[Mac OS X]] by Blizzard Entertainment on July 27, 2010. The game was announced at the Worldwide Invitational in South Korea on 19 May 2007 with a pre-rendered cinematic cut scene trailer and a gameplay demonstration of the Protoss.<ref name="ign1">{{Cite web | url = http://pc.ign.com/articles/788/788627p1.html | title = Blizzard's Worldwide Invitational—The ''StarCraft 2'' Announcement | author = Onyett, Charles | publisher = [[IGN]] | date = 2007-05-18 | accessdate = 2008-08-26}}</ref><ref name="gamespot1">{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6171170.html | title = ''Starcraft II'' warps into Seoul | author = Park, Andrew | publisher = [[GameSpot]] | date = 2007-05-18 | accessdate = 2008-08-26}}</ref> Further demonstrations regarding the game's new features have been showcased at subsequent [[Blizzcon]]s and other games conventions.<ref name="gamespotpardo">{{Cite video | title = [http://www.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft2/video/6176222/starcraft-ii-single-player-campaign-blizzcon-preview ''StarCraft II'' Under Construction] | medium = Development commentary | publisher = GameSpot | people=Pardo, Rob | location = Blizzcon | date = 2007-08-03 | accessdate = 2007-08-04 }}</ref> The game incorporates a new 3D graphics engine and adds new features such as the [[Havok (software)|Havok]] [[physics engine]].<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.havok.com/content/view/371/53/ | title=Blizzard Entertainment Licenses Havok Physics Technology | date=2006-09-14 | publisher=[[Havok (company)|Havok]] | accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> ''StarCraft II'' may also incorporate [[DirectX 10]] level effects.<ref name="officialfaq">{{Cite web | title = FAQ for ''StarCraft II'' | url = http://www.starcraft2.com/faq.xml | publisher = Blizzard Entertainment | accessdate = 2008-08-26}}</ref> Blizzard Entertainment released the game on July 27, 2010. Originally envisioned as a single game, ''StarCraft II'' was split into three parts during development, one for focusing on each race. The base game, ''Wings of Liberty'', follows the Terrans, while two expansion packs, ''Heart of the Swarm'' and ''Legacy of the Void'' are to be released to complement ''Wings of Liberty'' after release and further the story from the views of the Zerg and Protoss, respectively.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://forums.battle.net/thread.html?topicId=11226742562&sid=3000|title=StarCraft II Trilogy FAQ |last=Yu|first=Kevin|date=October 14, 2008|publisher=StarCraft II Battle.net Forum|accessdate=2008-11-02}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/918/918895p1.html|title=Blizzcon 08: StarCraft II Split Into Three Games|last=Ocampo|first=Jason |coauthors=Eduardo Vasconcellos|date=October 10, 2008|publisher=IGN|accessdate=2008-10-11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://uk.pc.gamespy.com/pc/starcraft-2/918896p1.html|title=StarCraft II is Now a Trilogy|last=Rausch |first=Allen|date=October 10, 2008|publisher=GameSpy|accessdate=2008-10-11}}</ref> The story of ''Wings of Liberty'' continues from four years after the conclusion of ''Brood War'', and revolves around Jim Raynor's struggles against the Terran Dominion.<ref name="gamespot3">{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6171178.html | title = Blizzard outlines ''StarCraft II'' gameplay | author = Park, Andrew | publisher = [[GameSpot]] | date = 2007-05-20 | accessdate = 2008-08-26}}</ref> ===Spin-off titles=== The success of ''StarCraft'' has spurred the creation of two authorized add-on titles to ''StarCraft'', as well as a deviation into [[video game genres|genres]] other than real-time strategy. ''Insurrection'' was the first add-on pack released for ''StarCraft''. Although developed and published by Aztech New Media, it is authorized by Blizzard Entertainment.<ref name="battlenet faq">{{Cite web| url=http://www.battle.net/scc/faq/general.shtml| title=Official ''StarCraft'' FAQ at Battle.net| accessdate=2008-08-26|publisher=Battle.net}}</ref> It was released for the PC on 31 July 1998.<ref name="Ins Gamespot summary">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/insurrectioncampaignsfs/index.html?tag=tabs;summary|title=''Insurrection: Campaigns for StarCraft'' for PC|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> The expansion's story focuses on a [[Confederacy of Man|Confederate]] colony during the course of the first campaign of ''StarCraft''. As in ''StarCraft'', the player takes control of each race in three separate campaigns. In the first campaign, Terran colonists attempt to defend themselves from the Zerg invasion of the sector as well as from a rising [[insurgency]]. The second campaign has the player directing a Protoss task force sent to clear the Zerg infestation of the colony by any means necessary. In the final campaign the player assumes the role of a Zerg cerebrate, whose goal is to crush all opposition on the surface. The expansion contains around 30 new campaign missions and over 100 new multiplayer maps,<ref name="Ins GameSpot review"/> although it does not include new content such as units and graphical terrain tilesets.<ref name="battlenet faq"/> ''Insurrection'' was criticized by reviewers for lacking the quality of the original game<ref name="Ins GameSpot review">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/insurrectioncampaignsfs/review.html|title=''Insurrection: Campaigns for StarCraft'' for PC review|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|author=Kasavin, Greg|date=1998-08-26|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> and it is not widely available. Although the add-on is authorized by Blizzard Entertainment, they offer no comment on support or availability of the game.<ref name="battlenet faq"/> ''Retribution'' is the second of the two authorized add-on packs released for ''StarCraft''. The add-on was developed by [[Stardock]] and published by [[WizardWorks Software]].<ref name="battlenet faq"/> It was released for the PC in late 1998. The game is set during the second campaign in ''StarCraft'', revolving around the acquisition of a crystal of immense power connected to the [[Xel'Naga]]. Divided into three campaigns, the player assumes the roles of a Protoss fleet executor, the commander of a [[Terran Dominion|Dominion]] task force and a Zerg cerebrate, all tasked with retrieving the crystal from a Dominion colony and getting it off the planet as quickly as possible. As with its predecessor, ''Retribution'' does not include any new gameplay features beyond its single player campaigns and an abundance of multiplayer levels. The add-on was not received with critical support, and instead was regarded as average but at least challenging.<ref name="Ret GameGenie review">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamegenie.com/reviews/pc/retrib.html|title=PC Game Reviews: ''StarCraft: Retribution''|accessdate=2008-08-26|publisher=GameGenie}}</ref> ''Retribution'' is not widely available, and Blizzard Entertainment offers no comment regarding support or the availability of ''Retribution'' despite authorizing the add-on.<ref name="battlenet faq"/> ''[[StarCraft: Ghost]]'' is a tactical [[stealth game]] for [[video game consoles|consoles]] developed under supervision of Blizzard Entertainment. Announced in 2002,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/ghost/pressrelease.shtml|date=2002-09-20|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|work=StarCraft: Ghost|title=Press Release|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20021004122855/www.blizzard.com/ghost/pressrelease.shtml|archivedate=2002-10-04|accessdate=2008-04-16}}</ref> the game was constantly delayed due to various issues, most notably including a change of development team from [[Nihilistic Software]] to [[Swingin' Ape Studios]] in July 2004.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://uk.xbox.gamespy.com/xbox/starcraft-ghost/529012p1.html|title=Blizzard Taps Swingin' Ape to work on ''StarCraft: Ghost''|publisher=[[GameSpy]]|author=Van Autrijve, Rainier|date=2004-07-07|accessdate=2008-04-16}}</ref> As updates for the game became less frequent and the graphics and game mechanics more outdated, suspicion began to grow that Blizzard would cancel the game.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.wired.com/science/discoveries/news/2006/02/70143?currentPage=3|title=Vaporware: Better Late Than Never|publisher=[[Wired News]]|author=Kahney, Leander|date=2006-02-06|accessdate=2008-04-15}}</ref> On 24 March 2006, Blizzard indefinitely postponed the game's development.<ref name="postpone">{{Cite web|url=http://xbox.gamespy.com/xbox/starcraft-ghost/698419p1.html|title=Blizzard Postpones ''StarCraft: Ghost'' Indefinitely|publisher=[[GameSpy]]|date=2006-03-24|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> The story of the game is based around [[Nova (StarCraft)|Nova]], a [[ghost agent|psychic assassin]] in the employ of the [[Terran Dominion]]. Although frequently used as an example of [[development hell]], Blizzard Entertainment's [[Rob Pardo]] has indicated that he would like the game to be completed in the future,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://games.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=07/06/28/1857245|title=Blizzard Still Has Hope For ''StarCraft: Ghost''|publisher=Slashdot|date=2007-06-28|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> and Blizzard Entertainment refuses to list the game as having been canceled.<ref name="MTV">{{Cite web|url=http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2008/02/13/blizzard-explains-why-starcraft-ghost-wasnt-on-the-dice-canceled-games-list/|title=Blizzard Explains Why ''StarCraft: Ghost'' Wasn't On The DICE Canceled Games List|publisher=[[MTV|MTV Multiplayer]]|date=2008-02-13|author=Totilo, Stephen|accessdate=2008-04-15}}</ref> ==Development== [[File:Chris Metzen.jpg|thumb|right|[[Chris Metzen]], along with James Phinney, led the design of ''StarCraft'' and created the series' fictional universe.]] [[Blizzard Entertainment]] began planning development on ''StarCraft'' in 1995, shortly after the beginning of development for ''[[Diablo (video game)|Diablo]]''.<ref name="devEA">{{Cite web|url=http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-evolution-12/#EA|title=Early Alpha|work=The Evolution of StarCraft|publisher=''StarCraft'' Legacy|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> The development was led by [[Chris Metzen]] and James Phinney, who also created the game's [[fictional universe]]. Using the ''[[Warcraft II]]'' game engine as a base, ''StarCraft'' made its debut at [[History of E3#1996|E3 1996]].<ref>{{Cite web|accessdate=2008-09-06|url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/pc/blizzard/p3_01.html|title=Page 10: The Golden Circle |publisher=GameSpot }}</ref> The game's success led to the development of two authorized add-ons, which were both released in 1998. However, neither of the two add-ons were particularly well received by critics. ''StarCraft'' also marked the debut of Blizzard Entertainment's film department.<ref name="cutscene"/> Previously, cinematic cut scenes were seen as simply gap fillers that often deviated from the game, but with ''StarCraft'' and later ''Brood War'' introducing high quality cinematics integral to the storyline of the series, Blizzard Entertainment is cited as having changed this perception and became one of the first game companies to raise the standard regarding such cut scenes.<ref name="cutscene">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/blizz-anniversary/joeyray.shtml|title=Joeyray: Blizzard Movie-Making|work=10th Anniversary Celebration|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-01-08|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20010418022350/http://www.blizzard.com/blizz-anniversary/joeyray.shtml|archivedate=2001-04-18}}</ref> ''StarCraft''{{'}}s success also inspired third-party developer Microstar Software to release an unauthorized add-on, entitled ''Stellar Forces'', in May 1998. Blizzard Entertainment consequently filed a lawsuit against Microstar for selling the add-on, arguing that as the product was unauthorized and created using ''StarCraft''{{'}}s [[Level editor|level editing software]], it was a breach of the [[Software license agreement|end user license agreement]].<ref name="Gspot sue">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/news/2463779.html?sid=2463779|title=Blizzard Sues Micro Star|first=Micheal|last=Mullen|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|date=1998-05-19|accessdate=2008-06-17}}</ref> {{Cquote|''We believe that we must aggressively combat the sale and distribution of unauthorized add-ons associated with our properties. In our opinion, ''Stellar Forces'' meets neither Blizzard's standards nor our customers' expectations. As gamers ourselves, we feel obligated to prevent the sale of unauthorized add-on products that do not add value to the ''StarCraft'' experience.''|4=Blizzard Entertainment<ref name="Gspot sue" />}} In November 1998, Blizzard Entertainment won the court case against Microstar Software. In the settlement, Microstar agreed to pay an undisclosed amount in punitive damages and to destroy all remaining copies of ''Stellar Forces'' in its possession, as well as to formally apologize to Blizzard Entertainment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/065/065655p1.html|title=Blizzard Wins ''StarCraft'' Case|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=1998-11-09|accessdate=2008-08-27}}</ref> After the release of the first two add-on packs, Blizzard Entertainment announced the official expansion pack to ''StarCraft'', entitled ''Brood War''.<ref name="GameSpotPreview">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/features/gs/broodwar/index.html|first=Elliott|last=Chin|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|title=Preview: ''StarCraft: Brood War''|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20030622030536/http://www.gamespot.com/features/gs/broodwar/index.html|archivedate=2003-06-22|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> Most of the team at Blizzard Entertainment responsible for ''StarCraft'' returned to work on ''Brood War''. Development on ''Brood War'' began shortly after ''StarCraft''{{'}}s release, and Blizzard Entertainment were assisted by members of [[Saffire (video game developer)|Saffire]], who were contracted for a variety of tasks comprising of programming and design for levels, visuals and audio effects.<ref>{{Cite book| last= Underwood| first=Peter| coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris| title=StarCraft: Brood War (manual)| location=Irvine, Calif. | publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]| year=1998|pages=pages 20–21|chapter=Credits}}</ref> In 2001, ''StarCraft: Ghost'' began development under [[Nihilistic Software]],<ref name="press">{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/ghost/pressrelease.shtml|date=2002-09-20|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|work=StarCraft: Ghost|title=Press Release|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20021004122855/www.blizzard.com/ghost/pressrelease.shtml|archivedate=2002-10-04|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> with the aim of releasing the game for the [[Xbox]], [[PlayStation 2]] and [[Nintendo GameCube]] during late 2003. Unlike previous real-time strategy ''StarCraft'' titles, ''Ghost'' was to be a tactical third-person action game. Although the press was positive about the video game console direction taken by ''Ghost'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://uk.xbox.ign.com/articles/371/371778p1.html|title=TGS 2002: StarCraft: Ghost Impressions|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=2002-09-20|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> the game was consistently delayed, and during the third quarter of 2004, Nihilistic Software discontinued their work with the project.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://uk.xbox.ign.com/articles/525/525418p1.html|title=Nihilistic Exits ''StarCraft: Ghost''|publisher=[[IGN]]|author=Adams, David|date=2004-06-22|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> Blizzard stated that Nihilistic Software had completed the tasks it had been contracted for and that the game would be delivered on time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/ghost/faq.shtml|title=FAQ|year=2004|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|work=StarCraft: Ghost|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20040701072122/blizzard.com/ghost/faq.shtml|archivedate=2004-07-01|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> ''StarCraft II'' was announced on 19 May 2007, nearly a decade after the original, at the Blizzard Worldwide Invitational in [[Seoul]], South Korea.<ref name="ign1"/><ref name="gamespot1"/> ''StarCraft II'' is being developed, under the codename ''Medusa'',<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/e307/starcraft-2-codename-trivia-277665.php |title=''StarCraft 2'' Codename Trivia |publisher=[[Kotaku]] |date=2007-07-12 |accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> for concurrent release on [[Windows XP]], [[Windows Vista]] and [[Mac OS X]]. Blizzard has announced a release date for the 27th of July.<ref name="msnbc">{{Cite news | author=Kalning, Kristin | title=Can Blizzard top itself with <nowiki>'</nowiki>''StarCraft II''?<nowiki>'</nowiki> | url=http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18925251/ | publisher=[[MSNBC]] | date=2007-05-31 | accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> Development on the game began in 2003, shortly after ''[[Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne]]'' was released.<ref>{{Cite web|accessdate=2008-08-31|url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/790/790158p1.html|title=StarCraft 2 Panel Discussions |publisher=IGN|date=2007-05-19|author=Onyett, Charles }}</ref> ==Adaptations== {{See|List of StarCraft media}} ===Novelizations=== [[File:StarCraft Archive cover.jpg|thumb|right|120px|''The StarCraft Archive'' cover]] The ''StarCraft'' series is supported by eight [[novelization]]s, with at least two more in the works, all published by [[Simon & Schuster]]. At [[BlizzCon]] 2007, [[Chris Metzen]] stated that he hoped to novelize the entirety of ''StarCraft'' and ''Brood War'' into a definitive text-based story. The first novel, ''StarCraft: Uprising'', was written by Micky Neilson,<ref name="UprisingSS"/> a [[Blizzard Entertainment]] employee, and originally released only as an [[e-book]] in December 2000.<ref name="UprisingSS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=479861|title=''StarCraft: Uprising'' (eBook)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> The novel follows the origins of the character [[Sarah Kerrigan]]. The second novel, entitled ''StarCraft: Liberty's Crusade'', serves as an adaptation of the first campaign of ''StarCraft'', following on a journalist following a number of the key Terran characters in the series. Written by [[Jeff Grubb]] and published in March 2001,<ref name="LibertySS"/> it was the first ''StarCraft'' novel to be released in [[paperback]].<ref name="LibertySS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=411112|title=''StarCraft: Liberty's Crusade'' (Mass Market Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> ''StarCraft: Shadow of the Xel'Naga'', published in July 2001<ref name="ShadowSS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=411113|title=''StarCraft: Shadow of the Xel'Naga'' (Mass Market Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> is the third novel, written by [[Kevin J. Anderson|Kevin Anderson]] under the pseudonym [[Gabriel Mesta]].<ref name="ShadowSS"/> It serves as a link between ''StarCraft'' and ''Brood War''. The fantasy author [[Tracy Hickman]] was brought in to write the fourth novel,<ref name="DarkSS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=411114|title=''StarCraft: Speed of Darkness'' (Mass Market Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> ''StarCraft: Speed of Darkness'', which was published in June 2002.<ref name="DarkSS"/> ''Speed of Darkness'' is written from the viewpoint of a [[Confederacy of Man|Confederate]] [[space marine|marine]] during the early stages of ''StarCraft''. The first four novels, including the e-book ''Uprising'', were later re-released as a single anthology entitled ''The StarCraft Archive'' in November 2007.<ref name="SCASS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=584839|title=''The StarCraft Archive: An Anthology'' (Trade Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> A fifth novel entitled ''StarCraft: Queen of Blades'' was published in June 2006.<ref name="QueenSS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=517558|title=''StarCraft: Queen of Blades'' (Mass Market Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> Written by [[Aaron S. Rosenberg]],<ref name="QueenSS"/> it is a novelization of the second campaign in ''StarCraft'' from the perspective of [[Jim Raynor]]. This was followed in November 2006<ref name="NovaSS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=516059|title=''StarCraft Ghost: Nova'' (Mass Market Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> by ''StarCraft Ghost: Nova'', a book focusing on the early origins of the character of [[Nova (StarCraft)|Nova]] from the postponed ''[[StarCraft: Ghost]]'' game. Written by [[Keith R.A. DeCandido]],<ref name="NovaSS"/> the novel was meant to accompany the release of ''StarCraft: Ghost'', but was continued despite the postponement of the game. In 2007 [[Christie Golden]], an author whose previous work included novels in Blizzard's [[Warcraft (series)|''Warcraft'' series]],<ref name="Golden1">{{Cite web|url=http://blizzplanet.com/content/683/|title=''StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga'' trilogy interview with Christie Golden|date=2007-04-02|accessdate=2008-08-26|publisher=Blizzplanet}}</ref> was brought in to write a trilogy entitled the ''StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga''.<ref name="FirstSS"/><ref name="HuntersSS"/> The trilogy acts as a link between ''StarCraft'' and its sequel ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty|StarCraft II]]''. The first installment, ''Firstborn'' being published in May 2007<ref name="FirstSS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=533882|title=''StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #1: Firstborn'' (Mass Market Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> and ''Shadow Hunters'', the second novel, being published in November 2007.<ref name="HuntersSS">{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=619761|title=''StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #2: Shadow Hunters'' (Mass Market Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> The final part of the trilogy, ''Twilight'' was released in June 2009.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=626357|title=''StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #3: Twilight'' (Mass Market Paperback)|accessdate=2008-09-07}}</ref> Two more upcoming novels have been announced: ''I, Mengsk'' by [[Graham McNeill]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=1&pid=631213&er=9781416550839|title=''StarCraft: I, Mengsk'' (Mass Market Paperback)|publisher=Simon & Schuster|accessdate=2008-09-12}}</ref> and ''Spectres'', which will be a sequel to DeCandido's ''Nova''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzplanet.com/blog/comments/starcraft-ghost-nova-pocket-book-sequel/|title=''StarCraft Ghost: Nova'' Pocket Book Sequel|publisher=Blizzplanet|date=2008-05-10|accessdate=2008-09-12}}</ref> In addition to these, Blizzard Entertainment authorized two short stories in ''[[Amazing Stories]]'' magazine, entitled ''StarCraft: Revelations'' and ''StarCraft: Hybrid''.<ref name="Amazing Stories">{{Cite web | title = ''StarCraft'' is an ''Amazing Story''| publisher = [[IGN]] |date = 1999-03-23| url = http://pc.ign.com/articles/067/067452p1.html| accessdate = 2008-08-26}}</ref> ''Revelations'' was authored by series creator [[Chris Metzen]] and Sam Moore, a Blizzard employee, and was featured on the cover of the 1999 spring edition with art by Blizzard's art director [[Samwise Didier]].<ref name="Amazing Stories"/> ''Hybrid'' was written by Micky Neilson and again was accompanied by artwork by Didier; the short story was published in the spring edition of 2000.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://paizo.com/amazing/products/issues/v5748btpy7357&source=rss|title=''Amazing Stories'' Issue #601|publisher=[[Paizo Publishing]]|work=Amazing Stories|accessdate=2008-09-16}}</ref> At New York Comic-Con in 2008, [[TokyoPop]] announced that they would be producing a number of ''StarCraft'' [[graphic novel]]s. Two series were announced: ''StarCraft: Frontline'', which will be a series of short story anthologies, and ''Ghost Academy'', which will be written by Keith R.A. DeCandido and follow several characters, such as Nova, during their training as the psychic assassins called "ghosts".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzplanet.com/blog/comments/new-york-comic-con-2008---tokyopop-starcraft:-frontline,-starcraft:-ghost-a|publisher=Blizzplanet|title=New York Comic Con 2008 - Tokyopop Starcraft: Frontline, Starcraft: Ghost Academy, Warcraft Legends & Warcraft: Dragons of Outla|date=2008-04-21|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> A further graphic novel set for a 2009 release, produced by [[Wildstorm]] and [[DC Comics]], was revealed in October 2008.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blizzplanet.com/blog/comments/wildstorm---starcraft-comic-book-on-2009/|title=Wildstorm – ''StarCraft'' comic book on 2009|publisher=Blizzplanet|date=2008-10-10|accessdate=2008-10-11}}</ref> ===Merchandise=== A number of action figures and collectable statues based upon the characters and units in ''StarCraft'' have been produced by ToyCom.<ref name="IGNSCtoys">{{Cite web| url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/064/064948p1.html | title="Blizzard tackles toys"| publisher=IGN| month=September | year=1998| accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamepro.com/entertainment/toys_games/toys/features/30976.shtml|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20041112093647/http://www.gamepro.com/entertainment/toys_games/toys/features/30976.shtml|title=Blizzard Toys Feature|publisher=''[[GamePro]]''|date=2003-04-09|archivedate=2004-11-12|accessdate=2008-09-09}}</ref> A number of model kits, made by [[Academy Plastic Model Co.|Academy Hobby Model Kits]], were also produced, displaying 1/30 scale versions of the [[space marine|marine]]<ref name="marinemodel">{{Cite web| url=http://www.hobbyoutlets.com/acy/2012.htm| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20071130022339/http://www.hobbyoutlets.com/acy/2012.htm| archivedate=2007-11-30| title=1/30 scale Terran marine model by Academy| publisher=Hobby Outlet| accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> and the hydralisk.<ref name="hydramodel">{{Cite web| url=http://www.hobbyoutlets.com/acy/2017.htm| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20071226060022/http://www.hobbyoutlets.com/acy/2017.htm| archivedate=2007-12-26| title=1/30 scale Zerg hydralisk model by Academy| publisher=Hobby Outlet| accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> In addition, Blizzard Entertainment teamed up with [[Fantasy Flight Games]] to create a [[StarCraft: The Board Game|board game]] based in the ''StarCraft'' universe.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.fantasyflightgames.com/starcraft.html|title=''StarCraft'': The Board Game| publisher= [[Fantasy Flight Games]]| accessdate = 2008-09-09}}</ref> Blizzard Entertainment also licensed [[Wizards of the Coast]] to produce an [[Alternity]] based game entitled ''[[StarCraft Adventures]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://index.rpg.net/display-entry.phtml?mainid=921|title=Alternity adventure game: ''StarCraft'' Edition|publisher=RPGnet|accessdate=2009-09-09}}</ref> ==Reception and cultural impact== {{See also|StarCraft professional competition}} {{Video game series reviews |game1=[[StarCraft]] |mc1=88%<ref name="MC">{{Cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/pc/starcraft?q=StarCraft|title=''StarCraft'': PC 1998 Reviews|publisher=[[MetaCritic]]|accessdate=2008-01-09}}</ref> <small>(PC)</small><br />80%<ref name="MCN64">{{Cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/n64/starcraft64?q=StarCraft|title=''StarCraft'' N64 2000 Reviews|publisher=[[MetaCritic]]|accessdate=2008-01-10}}</ref> <small>(N64)</small> |gr1=93%<ref name="GR1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/25418.asp?q=StarCraft|title=''StarCraft'' Reviews|publisher=[[Game Rankings]]|accessdate=2008-01-09}}</ref> <small>(PC)</small><br />77%<ref name="GRN64">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/198791.asp?q=StarCraft|title=''StarCraft 64'' Reviews|publisher=[[Game Rankings]]|accessdate=2008-01-12}}</ref> <small>(N64)</small></center> |game2=Insurrection |mc2=— |gr2=48%<ref name="ins GR">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/61817.asp|title=''Insurrection: Campaigns for StarCraft'' Reviews|accessdate=2008-08-26|publisher=[[Game Rankings]]}}</ref></center> |game3=Retribution |mc3=— |gr3=—<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/945113.asp?q=Retribution|title=''Retribution: Authorized Add-on for StarCraft'' Reviews|accessdate=2008-08-26|publisher=[[Game Rankings]]}}</ref></center> |game4=[[StarCraft: Brood War]] |mc4=— |gr4=96%<ref name="GR2">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages4/75249.asp|title=''StarCraft: Brood War'' Reviews|accessdate=2008-01-11|publisher=[[Game Rankings]]}}</ref></center> }} [[File:Televised Star Craft.jpg|thumb|left|A ''StarCraft'' match in South Korea, televised by [[MBCGame]]]] The ''StarCraft'' series has been a commercial success. After its release, ''StarCraft'' became the [[List of best-selling video games#PC|best-selling PC game]] for that year, selling over 1.5 million copies worldwide.<ref name="1998sales">{{Cite web |title=StarCraft Named #1 Seller in 1998 |publisher=[[IGN]] |date=1999-01-20 |url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/066/066492p1.html |accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> In the next decade, ''StarCraft'' sold over 9.5 million copies across the globe, with 4.5 million of these being sold in South Korea.<ref name="usatoday">{{Cite web |url=http://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2007-05-21-starcraft2-peek_N.htm |title=South Korean gamers get a sneak peek at 'StarCraft II' |accessdate=2008-08-26 |author=Olsen, Kelly |date=2007-05-21 |publisher=[[USA Today]]}}</ref> Since the initial release of ''StarCraft'', [[Blizzard Entertainment]] reported that its [[Battle.net]] online multiplayer service grew by 800 percent.<ref>{{Cite web | title = Blizzard's Battle.net Remains Largest Online Game Service in the World; Battle.net Dominates Online Gaming Industry With 2.1 Million Active Users; Korea Becomes World's No. 1 Market| publisher=Business Wire | date = 1999-02-04| url = http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0EIN/is_1999_Feb_4/ai_53706429| accessdate = 2008-07-20}}</ref> ''StarCraft'' remains one of the most popular online games in the world.<ref>{{Cite web|accessdate=2008-09-06|url=http://www.edge-online.com/magazine/retrospective-ten-years-starcraft|title=RETROSPECTIVE: Ten Years of StarCraft |publisher=''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]''|date=2008-04-01 }}</ref><ref name="fans">{{Cite web | author = Rossignol, Jim| title = Sex, Fame and PC Baangs: How the Orient plays host to PC gaming's strangest culture| publisher=[[PC Gamer UK]]|date = 2005-04-01| url = http://rossignol.cream.org/?p=284| accessdate = 2008-08-26}}</ref><ref name="thenewyorktimes">{{Cite web |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/21/technology/21warcraft.html |title=To the Glee of South Korean Fans, a Game's Sequel Is Announced |accessdate=2008-08-26 |author=Schiesel, Seth |date=2007-05-21 |publisher=[[The New York Times]]}}</ref> After its release, ''StarCraft'' rapidly grew in popularity in South Korea, establishing a successful [[StarCraft professional competition|pro-gaming scene]].<ref>{{Cite web | author = Ki-tae, Kim| title = Will ''StarCraft'' Survive Next 10 Years?| publisher = [[The Korea Times]] |date = 2005-03-20| url = http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/news_view.asp?newsIdx=2582126| accessdate = 2008-08-26}}</ref> Pro-gamers in South Korea are niche media celebrities and ''StarCraft'' games broadcast over three television channels dedicated to gaming.<ref>{{Cite web|accessdate=2008-08-26|url=http://techrepublic-cnet.com.com/South+Korea+leads+the+way/2009-1034_3-5261393.html|title=Broadband: South Korea leads the way |publisher=CNET|date=2004-07-28|author=Borland, John; Kanellos, Michael }}</ref> ''StarCraft'' has won numerous [[Game of the Year]] awards,<ref name="awardss">{{Cite web | title = Developer Awards| publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = 2006-01-01| url = http://www.blizzard.com/inblizz/awards.shtml | accessdate = 2006-08-19}}</ref> is often described as one of the best real-time strategy games made,<ref name="GspotAward">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/greatestgames/starcraft.html|title=The Greatest Games of All Time|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|year=1998|accessdate=2008-09-01}}</ref> and is widely credited with popularizing the use of distinct and unique sides—as opposed to sides of equal ability and strength—in real-time strategy games.<ref name ="popular"/> Although ''Insurrection'' and ''Retribution'' were not particularly well received,<ref name="ins GR"/> ''StarCraft: Brood War'' generally received very positive reviews, with an aggregate [[Game Rankings]] score of 96%.<ref name="GR2"/> The magazine ''[[PC Zone]]'' gave ''Brood War'' a short but flattering review, describing it as having "definitely been worth the wait" and also drew note to the cinematic cut scenes, stating that they "actually feel like part of the story rather than an afterthought."<ref name="PCZone">{{Cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=3469|title=PC review: ''StarCraft: Brood War''|work=[[PC Zone]]|publisher=[[ComputerAndVideoGames.com]]|author=Emery, Daniel|date=2001-08-12|accessdate=2008-08-26}}</ref> [[IGN]] stated that ''Brood War''{{'}}s enhancements were "enough to enrich the core gameplay without losing the flavor"<ref name="IGNBW">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.mac.ign.com/articles/361/361674p1.html|title=''StarCraft: Brood War'' review|publisher=[[IGN]]|author=Chen, Jeffrey|date=June 7, 2002|accessdate=2007-11-04}}</ref> while [[GameSpot]] noted that the expansion was developed with the same level of care as the full game.<ref name="GameSpot review">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraftexpansionsetbw/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=tabs&tag=tabs;reviews|title=''StarCraft: Brood War'' for PC review|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|author=Saggeran, Vik|date=1998-12-23|accessdate=2007-11-04}}</ref> ==References== {{Reflist|colwidth=30em}} ==External Links== * [[File:Wikiquote-logo.svg|16px]] Quotations related to ''[[Wikiquote:StarCraft|StarCraft]]'' at [[Wikiquote]] * [http://www.blizzard.com/worlds-starcraft.html Official ''StarCraft'' series website] * {{Facebook|StarCraft|''StarCraft''}} * {{Twitter|StarCraft|''StarCraft}} * {{YouTube|channel|StarCraft|name=''StarCraft''}} * [http://www.starcraft2.com/ Official ''StarCraft II'' website] * [http://www.sonsofthestorm.com/ Sons of the Storm], the official site of a number of Blizzard Entertainment concept artists. * [http://www.tokyopop.com/product/2329/StarCraftFrontline/1/ Official ''StarCraft'' Manga Website from TOKYOPOP] {{StarCraft}} {{Blizzard Entertainment}}
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