Starcraft 2: The Complete Guide to Everything you Need to Know

StarCraft II

9 Oct

Andre Guaraldo

In the vast and intricate galaxy of real-time strategy gaming, few titles shine as brightly as Starcraft 2. Whether you're a seasoned commander or a newcomer to the Koprulu Sector, our complete SC2 guide is your essential companion for embarking on a thrilling journey through this iconic game.

From unraveling the mysteries of Starcraft 2's lore to mastering its intricate gameplay mechanics, we're here to address all your queries and provide a comprehensive roadmap to conquer the challenges that await. Join us as we explore every facet of Starcraft 2, leaving no question unanswered and no strategy unexplored.

Starcraft 2 official logo (credits: Blizzard)

1. Is Starcraft 2 free to play?

Starcraft 2, the beloved real-time strategy game, has embraced a free-to-play model. But what exactly does this mean for players?

Base Game Access: Starcraft 2's base game, "Wings of Liberty," is now accessible to all for free. Dive into the gripping Terran campaign, complete missions, and enjoy hours of single-player gameplay at no cost.
Multiplayer Mayhem: Join the intense multiplayer battles as Terran, Protoss, or Zerg. Challenge players worldwide and experience the heart of Starcraft 2's competitive scene without spending a dime.
Co-op Commander Missions: Team up with friends in the Co-op Commander mode. While some commanders require purchase, there are free ones to choose from, offering unique abilities and missions.
Premium Content: Beyond the free experience, premium options are available. Purchase expansions like "Heart of the Swarm" and "Legacy of the Void" for additional campaigns and content. Personalize your experience with skins, announcer packs, and more.

In summary, Starcraft 2 offers an enticing free-to-play experience, providing access to the core game, multiplayer, and co-op missions without any financial commitment. For those seeking more, premium content and customization options are available.

2. When was Starcraft 2 released?

Starcraft 2 made its debut with "Wings of Liberty" in July 2010. This initial release introduced players to the Terran campaign and set the stage for what would become a monumental trilogy. "Heart of the Swarm" followed in 2013, focusing on the Zerg, while "Legacy of the Void" concluded the story in 2015, centering on the Protoss.

Since its release, Starcraft 2 has received continuous updates and balance changes, ensuring that the game remains vibrant and competitive. These expansions and updates have not only expanded the game's content but have also paved the way for the game's transition to a free-to-play model.

The Starcraft II trilogy (credits: Gamer's little playground)

The Starcraft 2 trilogy (credits: Gamer's little playground)

3. Which Starcraft 2 race is the best?

One of the key decisions in Starcraft 2 is choosing your race: Terran, Protoss, or Zerg. Each race offers a unique gameplay experience.

Terran: Known for versatility, Terran relies on adaptable units and advanced technology. Players who enjoy a balanced approach may find Terran appealing.
Protoss: The Protoss race boasts advanced technology and powerful units. If you prefer a high-tech, strategic playstyle, Protoss might be your choice.
Zerg: Zerg excels in swarming tactics and adaptive evolution. Players who like overwhelming numbers and rapid expansion often favor the Zerg.

Choosing a race is a personal decision, so consider your playstyle and strategic preferences before making your choice.

In-game available races (credits: Blizzard)

4. What is the available Starcraft 2 free-to-play content?

Starcraft 2's shift to free-to-play offers gamers substantial content at no cost. Players gain access to the entire "Wings of Liberty" campaign, featuring an engaging Terran storyline. The multiplayer mode, at the core of Starcraft 2's competitive scene, is also included, allowing you to compete with others as Terran, Protoss, or Zerg.

Additionally, the Co-op Commander mode offers cooperative missions. While some commanders require purchase, several are available for free, each offering unique abilities and missions. This combination of free single-player, multiplayer, and co-op experiences provides a well-rounded and exciting gameplay experience for players of all levels.

5. How many Starcraft 2 campaign missions are there?

Starcraft 2 offers a captivating single-player experience across its campaigns. The game features three major campaigns:

Wings of Liberty: The base game's Terran campaign, offering a thrilling story and numerous missions.
Heart of the Swarm: The Zerg-centric expansion introduces new units and a compelling storyline.
Legacy of the Void: The Protoss campaign concludes the trilogy, with epic battles and narrative closure.

In total, Starcraft 2 offers over 70 missions across these campaigns, providing hours of engaging gameplay. Whether you're drawn to the heroic Terrans, the relentless Zerg, or the technologically advanced Protoss, Starcraft 2's campaigns offer diverse experiences that cater to a variety of player preferences.

Campaign selection page (credits: Blizzard)

6. What is the story of Amon in SC2?

Starcraft 2's captivating lore centers around the malevolent being known as Amon. This ancient and powerful entity serves as the central antagonist throughout the game's campaigns. Amon's dark ambitions are revealed as players embark on heroic journeys to thwart his tyrannical reign.

Amon's influence stretches across the three main campaigns of Starcraft 2:

Wings of Liberty: In this Terran-focused campaign, players first encounter Amon's ominous presence. As they navigate the challenges of the Terran Dominion, they begin to uncover the depths of his malevolence.
Heart of the Swarm: The Zerg-centric expansion dives deeper into Amon's role as Kerrigan, the Queen of Blades, grapples with her inner struggle. Players witness the consequences of Amon's machinations on the Zerg race.
Legacy of the Void: The epic conclusion centers on the Protoss campaign. Amon's grand plan reaches its climax as players guide the Protoss in a final stand against his forces. The fate of the universe hangs in the balance.

The series villain: Amon (credits: Critical Hit)

The narrative of Starcraft 2 is a cornerstone of the game's appeal, immersing players in a world filled with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and high-stakes battles. Amon's character adds depth to the storyline, providing a formidable adversary for players to overcome as they strive to save the Koprulu Sector from his malevolent grasp.

7. What to do if you think SC2 servers are down?

Experiencing connectivity issues or suspecting that Starcraft 2 servers may be down can be frustrating. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate these problems:

Check Your Connection: Start by ensuring that your internet connection is stable and working correctly. Restart your router if needed and connect via a wired connection for a more stable experience.
Verify Server Status: Visit Blizzard's official website or social media channels for real-time server status updates. They often provide information on scheduled maintenance or known issues. Checking these sources can quickly confirm if the problem is on their end.
Update Your Game: An outdated game client can lead to connectivity problems. Make sure that your Starcraft 2 game client is up to date. Blizzard frequently releases patches and updates to improve performance and fix bugs.
Contact Support: If you've tried the above steps and still encounter issues, don't hesitate to contact Blizzard's customer support. They can provide personalized assistance and help troubleshoot any persistent problems.
Community Resources: Engage with the Starcraft 2 community on forums or social media. Other players may have encountered similar issues and can offer insights or solutions.

By following these steps, you can efficiently diagnose and resolve server-related issues, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience.

8. How to mod SC2?

Modding in Starcraft 2 offers an avenue for creativity and innovation, allowing players to create custom maps, game modes, and unique experiences. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to get started:

Access the Editor: Locate the Starcraft 2 map editor within the game's menu. It provides a user-friendly interface that's accessible to both beginners and experienced modders.
Learn the Basics: Start with basic map creation. Experiment with terrain, place units, and adjust settings to shape the gameplay. As you become more proficient, delve into scripting and more advanced features to create complex custom content.
Community Resources: Join the active Starcraft 2 modding community. Online forums, tutorials, and resources are readily available. Engaging with other modders can provide valuable insights, troubleshooting assistance, and collaborative opportunities.
Test and Share: Test your creations thoroughly to ensure they function as intended. Once satisfied, share your custom maps and game modes with the community. You can upload your creations to the Starcraft 2 Arcade, making them accessible to players worldwide.

Modding in Starcraft 2 is a dynamic way to engage with the game's universe, push the boundaries of creativity, and share your unique visions with the gaming community. Whether you're a casual creator or aspire to design complex game modes, the map editor is your canvas for innovation.

9. Where to find and how to use SC2's map editor?

The Starcraft 2 Map Editor is a versatile tool that empowers players to craft custom content and experiences. Here's a comprehensive guide on accessing and utilizing this creative tool:

Accessing the Editor: Find the Starcraft 2 Map Editor in the game's menu under "Map Editor." It's a user-friendly interface that's accessible to both beginners and experienced creators
User-Friendly Interface: The map editor offers an intuitive interface for creating custom maps. You can design terrain, place units, and define objectives effortlessly. Experiment with triggers to add dynamic gameplay elements.
Terrain and Aesthetics: Customize terrain by modifying textures, elevation, and doodads. Create immersive environments that suit your narrative or gameplay goals. Experiment with lighting and special effects to enhance the visual appeal of your maps.
Triggers and Scripting: Delve into advanced features like triggers and scripting to create dynamic gameplay experiences. Triggers allow you to define conditions and events, adding depth to your custom content.
Testing and Sharing: Thoroughly playtest your creations to ensure they function as intended. Once satisfied, share your maps and game modes with the community. You can upload them to the Starcraft 2 Arcade, making them accessible to players worldwide.

Whether you're a casual creator looking to design a unique map or an aspiring game designer aiming to create intricate game modes, the Starcraft 2 Map Editor provides you with the tools to bring your vision to life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this guide has unraveled the intricate world of Starcraft 2, from its free-to-play model to its captivating lore, race choices, and troubleshooting tips. Whether you're a newcomer seeking answers or a seasoned player looking to sharpen your skills, we've aimed to address all your queries.

Now, armed with this knowledge, venture forth into the Koprulu Sector, command your armies, and immerse yourself in the epic battles that await. Starcraft 2 continues to be a dynamic universe where strategy knows no bounds, and the thrill of conquest is everlasting. May your campaigns be victorious, and your gaming experience unforgettable.

Featured image credits: Hongkiat