vortisources.blogg.se

If the beta has taught us anything, it is that, when it comes to multiplayer, StarCraft II is a lot like StarCraft: three races – terran, protoss and zerg – base building, resource gathering, big armies, a top down perspective, a vibrant, colourful art style and a markedly familiar feel. So when Frank takes me through his presentation of what will undoubtedly be one of the biggest games of 2010, I embrace my inner geek with all the might of an imaginary bear hug, as so many of you have already done while playing StarCraft II’s multiplayer-only beta. And here we have science fiction in all its cliché-ridden glory: beefcake marines, mysterious space elves and terrifying insect-like aliens. Here we have a real-time strategy game, perhaps the most hardcore of all game genres. Here we have the sequel to a 12-year-old game that South Koreans and a handful of Westerners can make a living out of playing professionally. “Embrace Your Inner Geek” Blizzard co-founder and StarCraft II executive producer Frank Pearce’s Powerpoint slide says. One of the eight core values, however, seems particularly apt when it comes to StarCraft II.

If we follow them religiously as we twat wild boars with sticks in World of Warcraft, will we go to virtual heaven when we die? In outlining the eight tenets its staff must always adhere to, Blizzard’s head honchos have carved into virtual stone gaming’s version of the Ten Commandments.

It’s funny to imagine Blizzard’s eight core values as bullet points on the back of a self-help book for video gamers: Gameplay First Learn & Grow Commit To Quality Think Globally Embrace Your Inner Geek Lead Responsibly Every Voice Matters and Play Nice Play Fair.