StarCraft 26809 225456371 2008-07-13T20:05:57Z S@bre 719219 [[WP:UNDO|Undid]] revision 225456011 by [[Special:Contributions/69.210.61.18|69.210.61.18]] ([[User talk:69.210.61.18|talk]]) {{otheruse|this=the video game|use1=an overview of the franchise|page1=StarCraft (series)|use2=the racehorse|page2=Starcraft (horse)}} {{Infobox VG |title = StarCraft |image = [[Image:StarCraft box art.jpg|250px|The box art of ''StarCraft''.]] |caption = <small>''StarCraft''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s box art depicts a [[Protoss]] warrior, flanked by a [[Terran (StarCraft)|Terran]] soldier and a [[Zerg]] hydralisk.</small> |developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]]<br> [[THQ|Mass Media Interactive<br>Entertainment]]<br> <small>([[Nintendo 64]] version)</small> |publisher = '''Windows, Mac OS''' <br />{{vgrelease|NA=Blizzard Entertainment}}{{vgrelease|PAL=[[Sierra Entertainment]]}}'''Nintendo 64''' <br />[[Nintendo]] |designer = [[Chris Metzen]]<br />James Phinney |version = 1.15.2 ([[2008-01-16]])<!-- Please update the version on StarCraft: Brood War at the same time, they should be the same. --> |released ='''Windows'''<br />{{vgrelease|World|WO|[[March 31]] [[1998]]}}<ref name="releasedate"/><br />'''Mac OS'''<br />{{vgrelease|NA=March 1999}}'''Nintendo 64'''<br />{{vgrelease|[[North America|NA]]|[[June 13]] [[2000]]}}<ref name="64release"/><br />{{vgrelease|[[Europe|EU]]|[[June 16]] [[2000]]}}<ref name="64release"/> |series= [[StarCraft (series)|''StarCraft'']] |genre = [[Real-time strategy]] |engine = ''[[Warcraft II]]'' engine |modes = [[Single-player]], [[Multiplayer video game|multiplayer]] |ratings = {{vgratings|ELSPA=15+|ESRB=T|OFLCA=M15+|OFLCZ=R16+|PEGI=16+|USK=12+|Game Rating Board|GRB|12}} |platforms = [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], [[Mac OS]], [[Nintendo 64]] |requirements = '''Windows''':<br /> [[Windows 95]] or better<br /> 90 [[Hertz|MHz]] [[Pentium]]<br /> 16 [[Megabyte|MB]] [[Random access memory|RAM]]<br /> [[DirectX]]-compatible<br /> 2x CD-ROM drive<br /> 640x480 8-bit display<br /> '''Mac OS''':<br /> [[System 7|System 7.6]] or better<br /> [[PowerPC]] 601 or better<br /> 16&nbsp;MB RAM |media = [[CD-ROM]], download,<br />Nintendo 64 [[Cartridge (electronics)|cartridge]] |input = [[Mouse (computing)|Mouse]], [[Computer keyboard|keyboard]] }} '''''StarCraft''''' is a [[military science fiction]] [[real-time strategy]] [[video game]] developed by [[Blizzard Entertainment]]. The first game of the [[StarCraft (series)|''StarCraft'' series]], it was released for [[Microsoft Windows]] on [[31 March]] [[1998]].<ref name="releasedate"/> With more than nine million copies sold worldwide as of [[21 May]] [[2007]], it is one of the [[List of best-selling video games|best-selling games]] for the [[personal computer]]. A [[Mac OS]] version was released in March 1999, and a [[Nintendo 64]] adaptation co-developed with [[THQ|Mass Media Interactive Entertainment]] was released on [[13 June]] [[2000]].<ref name="64release"/> With its storyline adapted and expanded through a series of novels, ''StarCraft'' has three [[expansion pack]]s available and a [[StarCraft II|sequel]] in development. Set in the [[26th century|26<sup>th</sup> century]], the game revolves around three species&mdash;the [[Terran (StarCraft)|Terrans]], humans exiled from Earth adept at adapting to any situation; the [[Zerg]], a race of [[insectoid]]s obsessed with assimilating other races in pursuit of genetic perfection; and the [[Protoss]], a humanoid species with advanced technology and [[psionics|psionic abilities]] attempting to preserve their civilization and strict philosphical way of living from the Zerg&mdash;fighting for dominance in a distant part of the [[Milky Way]] galaxy. The game has been praised for pioneering the use of unique factions in real-time strategy gameplay<ref name="ignr"/> and for a "compelling" story.<ref name="GSpot"/> Many of the industry's journalists have praised ''StarCraft'' as one of the best<ref name="Edge"/> and most important<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamepro.com/gamepro/international/games/features/110068.shtml|title=The 52 Most Important Video Games|publisher=''[[GamePro]]''|accessdate=2008-05-21}}</ref> video games of all time, and for having raised the bar for developing real-time strategy games.<ref name="GspotAward"/> ''StarCraft''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s [[Multiplayer video game|multiplayer]] is particularly popular in [[South Korea]], where professional players and teams participate in matches, earn sponsorships, and compete in televised tournaments.<ref name="pop"/> ==Gameplay== <!-- Please keep this section as brief as possible, people. Only very important information directly related to basic gameplay should be added. --> [[Image:Zerg colony (StarCraft).png|thumb|left||A [[Zerg]] colony shown from ''StarCraft''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s overhead perspective]] Blizzard Entertainment's use of three distinct races in ''StarCraft'' is widely credited with revolutionising the [[real-time strategy]] genre. All units are unique to their respective races and while rough comparisons can be drawn between certain types of units, every unit performs differently and require different tactics for a player to succeed. The enigmatic [[Protoss]] have access to powerful units and machinery and advanced technologies such as [[energy shield]]s and localised [[Faster-than-light|warp]] capabilities, powered by their psionic traits. However, their forces are slow and expensive to produce, encouraging players to follow a strategy of the quality of their units over the quantity.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/features/starcraft_sg/protoss_units.html|title=''StarCraft'' Strategy Guide: The Protoss Conclave - Units and Structures|first=Greg|last=Kasavin|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> The insectoid [[Zerg]] possess entirely organic units and structures, which can be produced quickly and at a far cheaper cost to resources, but are accordingly weaker, relying on sheer numbers and speed to overwhelm enemies. The Zerg augment their forces through evolution, developing armoured [[carapace]]s and various types of claws, spines and acids as weapons.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/features/starcraft_sg/zerg_units.html|title=''StarCraft'' Strategy Guide: The Zerg Swarm - Units and Structures|first=Greg|last=Kasavin|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> The [[Terran (StarCraft)|Terrans]] provide a middle ground between the other two races, providing units that are versatile and flexible. The Terrans have access to a range of more ballistic military technologies and machinery, such as tanks to nuclear weapons.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/features/starcraft_sg/race_overview.html|title=''StarCraft'' Strategy Guide: The Terran Dominion - Units and Structures|first=Greg|last=Kasavin|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> Although each race is unique in its composition, no race has an innate advantage over the other. The balance between the species has been the subject of numerous gameplay tweaks by Blizzard Entertainment, via infrequent patches.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://us.blizzard.com/support/article.xml?articleId=21149|title=Blizzard Support: ''StarCraft''|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|date=2008-01-16|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> ''StarCraft'' features [[artificial intelligence]] which scales in difficulty, although the player cannot change the difficulty level in the single-player campaigns. Each campaign starts with enemy factions running easy AI modes, scaling through the course of the campaign to the hardest AI modes. In the custom map editor provided with the game, a designer has access to four levels of AI difficulties: "easy", "medium", "hard" and "insane", each setting differing in the units and technologies allowed to an AI faction and the extent of the AI's tactical and strategic planning.<ref name="StarEdit">{{cite web|url=http://www.creepcolony.com/staredit1.shtml|title=''StarCraft'' - StarEdit Tutorial|date=2007-06-24|publisher=CreepColony.com|accessdate-2008-04-16}}</ref> The single-player campaign consists of thirty missions, split into ten for each race. ===Resource management=== Each race relies on two resources to sustain their game economies and to build their forces: [[mineral]]s and [[fuel gas|gas]]. Minerals are needed for all units and structures, and are obtained by using a worker unit to harvest the resource directly from mineral nodes dotted around a map. Players require gas to construct advanced units and buildings, and is acquired by building a refinery on top of a geyser and using worker units to extract the gas from it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.battle.net/scc/GS/res.shtml|title=General Strategy: Resources|work=[[Battle.net]]|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> In addition, players need to regulate the supplies for their forces to ensure that they can construct the number of units they need. Although the nature of the supply differs between the races&mdash;Terrans use physical supplies held in depots,<ref name="Tbasic">{{cite web|url=http://www.battle.net/scc/terran/basic.shtml|title=Terran Basics|work=[[Battle.net]]|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-04-16}}</ref> Protoss use a psionic power nexus<ref name="Pbasic">{{cite web|url=http://www.battle.net/scc/protoss/bstrat.shtml|title=Protoss Basics|work=[[Battle.net]]|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-04-16}}</ref> and Zerg are regulated by the amount of controlling units present<ref name="Zbasic">{{cite web|url=http://www.battle.net/scc/zerg/bstrat.shtml|title=Zerg Basics|work=[[Battle.net]]|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-04-16}}</ref>&mdash;the supply acts exactly the same for each race, preventing players from creating new units unless there are sufficient supplies to sustain them. The Protoss and Zerg are also limited in where they can build structures: Protoss buildings need to be linked up to a power grid to function,<ref name="Pbasic"/> while Zerg structures must be placed on a carpet of biomass produced by certain structures.<ref name="Zbasic"/> Terran buildings are far less limited, with certain primary base structures having the ability to take off and slowly fly to a new location.<ref name="Tbasic"/> The battlefield environments themselves vary according to the planet a mission is taking place on, ranging from volcanic wastelands and lush jungles to space platforms. ===Multiplayer=== Multiplayer in ''StarCraft'' is powered through Blizzard Entertainment's [[Battle.net]] Internet service. Through this, a maximum of eight players can compete in a variety of game modes, from simply destroying all other players on a level, to [[king of the hill (game)|king of the hill]] and [[capture the flag]] objective-based games. In addition, the game incorporates a variety of specialised scenarios for different types of game, such as simulating a [[football]] game, using the Terran hoverbike unit to conduct a bike race, or hosting a Zerg hunting competition.<ref name="StarEdit"/> ''StarCraft'' is also one of the few games that include a "spawn" installation, which allows for limited multiplayer. It must be installed from a disc, and requires a [[product key]] to work just as the full version does. However, one product key can support up to eight spawned installations with access to Battle.net. Limitations of a spawned installation include the inability to play single-player missions, create multiplayer games or use the campaign editor.<ref>{{cite book|language=English|chapter=Multiplayer Games: Spawned Games|pages=page 11|author=Underwood, Peter|coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris; Vaughn, Jeffrey|title=StarCraft (manual)|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|year=[[1998]]}}</ref> ==Synopsis== ===Setting=== {{seealso|Species of StarCraft}} ''StarCraft'' takes place in a science fiction universe created by [[Chris Metzen]] for Blizzard Entertainment. According to the story presented in the game's manual, the overpopulation of [[Earth]] in the early [[21st century|21<sup>st</sup> century]] has caused the [[United Earth Directorate|international government]] to exile undesirable elements of the [[Terran (StarCraft)|human]] race, such as criminals, the [[cybernetics|cybernetically enhanced]] and [[Mutant (fictional)|genetic mutants]] to colonise the far reaches of the galaxy.<ref>{{cite book|language=English|chapter=Terran: History|pages=pages 26-28|author=Underwood, Peter|coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris; Vaughn, Jeffrey|title=StarCraft (manual)|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|year=[[1998]]}}</ref> In the distant Koprulu sector of the galaxy, the exiles form several governments, but quickly fall into conflict with each other. One government, the [[Confederacy of Man]], eventually emerges as the strongest faction, but its oppressive nature and brutal methods of suppressing dissent stir up major rebel opposition in the form of a terrorist group called the [[Sons of Korhal]]. Just prior to the beginning of the game in [[25th century|December 2499]], an alien race of advanced technology and psionic power, the [[Protoss]], makes first contact with humanity by destroying a Confederate colony world without any prior warning. Soon after this, the Terrans discover that a second alien race, the insectoid [[Zerg]], has been stealthily infesting the surface of several of the Terran colonies, and that the Protoss are destroying the planets to prevent the Zerg from spreading. With the Confederacy threatened by two alien races as well as a large rebellion, it begins to crumble.<ref>{{cite book|language=English|chapter=Terran: History|pages=pages 30-33|author=Underwood, Peter|coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris; Vaughn, Jeffrey|title=StarCraft (manual)|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|year=[[1998]]}}</ref> ===Characters=== {{main|Characters of StarCraft}} The player assumes the role of three anonymous characters over the course of the game. In the first campaign, the player acts as the Confederate governor of an outlying colony threatened by both the Zerg and the Protoss, [[Mar Sara]], and is forced through events to join the rebel Sons of Korhal under its leader [[Arcturus Mengsk]]. Mengsk's campaign is accompanied by [[Jim Raynor]], a [[morality|moral]] law enforcement officer from Mar Sara, and [[Sarah Kerrigan]], a [[ghost agent|psychic espionage agent]] and Mengsk's second-in-command. The second episode of the game sees the player as a [[cerebrate]], a commander within the Zerg Swarm. The player is ruled over by the [[Zerg Overmind]], the manifestation of the collective consciousness of the Swarm and the game's primary antagonist, with advice from other cerebrates of higher rank and status while accomplishing the objectives of the Swarm. In the final part of ''StarCraft'', the player is a newly appointed officer within the Protoss military, reporting to [[Aldaris]], a representative of the [[Khalai Protoss|Protoss government]]. Aldaris is at odds with the former occupant of the player's position, [[Tassadar]], over his association with [[Zeratul]], a member of the [[dark templar]], a group considered heretical by the Protoss government.<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=2007-11-22}}</ref> ===Plot=== <!-- Please keep it short. No mission-by-mission history, just an outline! --> [[Image:Briefing room (StarCraft).png|right|thumb|Plot exposition often takes place in menued screens with only the characters' faces shown and their captioned voices heard]] The story of ''StarCraft'' is presented through its instruction manual, the briefings to each mission and conversations within the missions themselves, along with the use of cinematic [[cut scenes]] at key points. The game itself is split into three episodes, one for the player to command each race. In the first segment of the game, the player and [[Jim Raynor]] are attempting to control the colony of [[Mar Sara]] in the wake of the Protoss attack on other Terran worlds. After the [[Confederacy of Man|Confederacy]] arrests Raynor for destroying Confederate property, despite the fact that it had been infested by the Zerg, the player joins [[Arcturus Mengsk]] and the Sons of Korhal.<ref name="ep1m3">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode I, mission 3: "Desperate Alliance"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e1_3 Transcript].</ref> Raynor, who is freed by Mengsk's troops, also joins and frequently accompanies the player on missions. Mengsk then begins to use Confederate technology captured on Mar Sara to lure the Zerg to Confederate installations and further his own goals.<ref name="ep1m7">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode I, mission 7: "The Trump Card"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e1_7 Transcript].</ref> After forcing Confederate general [[Edmund Duke (StarCraft)|Edmund Duke]] to join him, Mengsk sacrifices his own second-in-command, [[Sarah Kerrigan]], to ensure the destruction of the Confederacy by luring the Zerg to the Confederate capital [[Tarsonis]].<ref name="ep1m9">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode I, mission 9: "New Gettsyburg"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e1_5 Transcript].</ref> Raynor is outraged by Mengsk's true aims of obtaining power at any cost and deserts, taking with him a small army of the former colonial militia of Mar Sara. Mengsk reorganises what remains of the Terran population into the [[Terran Dominion]], crowning himself as emperor.<ref name="ep1m10">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode I, mission 10: "The Hammer Falls"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e1_10 Transcript].</ref> The second campaign reveals that Kerrigan was not killed by the Zerg, but rather is captured and infested in an effort to incorporate her [[psionic]] traits into the Zerg gene pool. She emerges with far more psionic powers and physical strength, her DNA completely altered.<ref name="ep2m4">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode II, mission 4: "Agent of the Swarm"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e2_4 Transcript].</ref> Meanwhile, the Protoss commander [[Tassadar]] discovers that the Zerg's [[cerebrate]]s cannot be killed by conventional means, but that they can be harmed by the powers wielded by the heretical [[dark templar]]. Tassadar allies himself with the dark templar prelate [[Zeratul]], who assassinates one of the Zerg's cerebrates in their hive clusters on [[Char (StarCraft)|Char]].<ref name="ep2m7">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode II, mission 7: "The Culling"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e2_7 Transcript].</ref> The cerebrate's death results in its forces running amok through the Zerg hives, but briefly links the minds of Zeratul and the [[Zerg Overmind]], allowing the Overmind to learn the location of the Protoss homeworld [[Aiur]], which it has been seeking for millennia. The Zerg promptly invade and despite heavy Protoss resistance, the Overmind is able to embed itself into the crust of the planet.<ref name="ep2m10">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode II, mission 10: "Full Circle"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e2_10 Transcript].</ref> The final section of the game sees [[Aldaris]] and the Protoss government branding Tassadar a traitor and a heretic for conspiring with the dark templar. The player initially serves Aldaris in defending Aiur from the Zerg invasion, but while on a mission to arrest Tassadar, the player joins him instead.<ref name="ep3m5">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode III, mission 5: "Choosing Sides"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e3_5 Transcript].</ref> A Protoss civil war erupts, pitting Tassadar, Zeratul, and their allies against the Protoss establishment. The dark templar prove their worth when they use their energies to slay two more of the Zerg cerebrates on Aiur, and the Conclave reconciles with them.<ref name="ep3m9">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode III, mission 9: "Shadow Hunters"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e3_9 Transcript].</ref> Aided by Raynor's forces&mdash;who sided with Tassadar back on Char&mdash;the Protoss break through the Overmind's weakened defenses and destroy the Overmind's outer shell, but take heavy casualties in the process. Tassadar channels his own psionic energies in combination with those of the dark templar through the hull of his command ship and crashes it into the Overmind, sacrificing himself in order to destroy it.<ref name="ep3m10">{{cite video game | title = StarCraft | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | date = [[1998]] | platform = PC | level = Episode III, mission 10: "Eye of the Storm"| language = English}} [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/starcraft-encyclopedia-4/starcraft-story-17/#e3_10 Transcript].</ref> ==Development== [[Image:Alpha build (StarCraft).png|thumb|right|The [[Zerg]] in an early alpha build of ''StarCraft'']] [[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=2008-01-08}}</ref> Using the ''[[Warcraft II]]'' game engine as a base, ''StarCraft'' made its debut at [[History of E3#The Early Years (1995-1998)|E<sub>3</sub> 1996]]. The version of the game displayed, assembled by the team's lead programmer Bob Fitch, received a rather weak response from the convention and was criticised by many for being "''[[Warcraft]]'' in space".<ref>{{cite web |last=Keighley|first=Geoff |title=Eye Of The Storm: Behind Closed Doors At Blizzard |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/pc/blizzard/p3_01.html |accessdate=2006-08-19}}</ref> As a consequence the entire project was overhauled, bringing the focus onto creating three distinct species. [[Bill Roper (video game producer)|Bill Roper]], one of the game's producers, stated this would be a major departure from the ''Warcraft'' approach, comparing its two equal sides to those of [[chess]] and stating that ''StarCraft'' would allow players to "develop very unique strategies based on which species [is being played], and will require [players] to think of different strategies to combat the other two species".<ref name="GameSpotPreview1">{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft/news.html?sid=2563222&mode=previews|title=''StarCraft'' Preview|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|first=Ron|last=Dulin|date=1996-05-01|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> In early 1997, the new version of ''StarCraft'' was unveiled, receiving a far more positive response. However, the game was still marred by technical difficulties, so Bob Fitch completely redesigned the ''Warcraft II'' engine within two months to ensure that many of the features desired by the designers, such as the abilities for units to [[burrow]] and [[cloaking device|cloak]], could be implemented.<!--<ref name="bobdev">{{cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/blizz-anniversary/bob.shtml|title=Bob: ''StarCraft''!|work=10th Anniversary Celebration|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-01-08}}</ref>--> Later improvements to the game included pre-rendered sprites and backgrounds, constructed using [[3D Studio Max]]. An [[isometric projection|isometric]] in-game view was also adopted, in contrast to ''Warcraft II''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s top down perspective. In addition, the game utilised high quality music, composed by Blizzard's resident composers Glenn Stafford, [[Jason Hayes]] and Derek Duke, and professional voice actors were hired.<ref>{{cite web | last=Giovetti|first=Al | title =Interview with Bill Roper| publisher=The Computer Show.com |date = [[1997-01-01]]| url = http://www.thecomputershow.com/computershow/interviews/starcraftbillroper.htm| accessdate = 2006-08-19}}</ref> Despite the progress, ''StarCraft'' was slow to emerge. After release was delayed until after December 1997, a group of ''StarCraft'' fans on the official forums who labeled themselves "Operation: Can't Wait Any Longer" attempted to retrieve the [[Software release life cycle#beta|beta]] version of ''StarCraft'' from Blizzard's headquarters in [[Irvine, California]].<ref>{{cite web | title = The Official CWAL FAQ| publisher=Operation CWAL |date = [[2004-02-20]]| url = http://www.cwal.net/docs/faq.shtml| accessdate = 2006-08-21}}</ref> Although the attempt was unsuccessful, Blizzard Entertainment later incorporated the group's name into ''StarCraft'' as a cheat code to speed up the production of units,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/features/starcraft_sg/cheats.html|title=''StarCraft'' Strategy Guide: Cheat Codes - The Spoils of War|first=Greg|last=Kasavin|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-04-16}}</ref> and giving the group thanks in the game's credits.<ref>{{cite book|language=English|chapter=Credits|pages=page 95|author=Underwood, Peter|coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris; Vaughn, Jeffrey|title=StarCraft (manual)|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|year=[[1998]]}}</ref> The game was released for [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] on [[31 March]] [[1998]],<ref name="releasedate">{{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> with the [[Mac OS]] version following a year later in March 1999.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/mac/strategy/starcraft/index.html|title=''StarCraft'' for MAC|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> Development on a [[Nintendo 64]] version, ''StarCraft 64'', began in 1999, converted from PC by Mass Media Interactive Entertainment&mdash;a subsidiary of [[THQ]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.massmedia.com/|title=Mass Media Interactive Entertainment official company site|accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref>&mdash;and published by [[Nintendo]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/n64/strategy/starcraft64/news.html?sid=2545252|title=''StarCraft 64'' Preview|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|date=1999-06-16|accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref> ''StarCraft 64'' was released on [[13 June]] [[2000]] in the USA and on [[16 June]] [[2000]] in Europe .<ref name="64release">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ign64.ign.com/objects/003/003894.html|title=''StarCraft 64''|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref> ===Audio=== The musical score to ''StarCraft'' was composed by Blizzard Entertainment's in-house composers. Derek Duke and Glenn Stafford composed the tracks in the menus and the in-game music, while [[Jason Hayes]] composed the music used in the cinematic [[cut scene]]s. [[Tracy W. Bush]] provided additional support in composing.<ref name="soundtrack1">{{cite web|url=http://www.soundtrackcollector.com/catalog/soundtrackdetail.php?movieid=71169|title=''StarCraft''|publisher=Soundtrack Collector|accessdate=2008-04-22}}</ref> The musical score of the game was received well by reviewers, who have described it as "appropriately melodic and dark"<ref name="GSpot"/> and "impressive",<ref name="GameProN64"/> with one reviewer noting that some of the music owed much of its inspiration to [[Jerry Goldsmith|Jerry Goldsmith's]] score for the film ''[[Alien (film)|Alien]]''.<ref name="GamePro"/> The official game soundtrack was released in 2000, comprising of tracks from both ''StarCraft'' and ''[[StarCraft: Brood War|Brood War]]'', as well as a sizable portion of remix tracks and music inspired by ''StarCraft'', created by several [[South Korea]]n [[disc jockey]]s. The soundtrack was distributed by Net Vision Entertainment.<ref name="soundtrack2">{{cite web|url=http://www.en.game-ost.ru/info.php?id=450|title=''StarCraft'': Game Music Vol. 1|publisher=Game OST|accessdate=2008-04-22}}</ref> {{tracklist | collapsed = yes | headline = ''StarCraft: Game Music Vol. 1'' tracklist | total_length = 56:49 | title1 = Prologue: Requiem | note1 = composed by Blizzard Entertainment | length1 = 2:13 | title2 = Rescue The Marines (Remix) | note2 = composed by "Honey Family" | length2 = 3:47 | title3 = Nuclear Attack | note3 = composed by Jung Dana | length3 = 4:11 | title4 = 12<sup>th</sup> Area (Terran Theme) | note4 = composed by "Jijix" | length4 = 4:29 | title5 = Zerg Are Coming (Zerg Theme) | note5 = composed by Shin Hae Chul | length5 = 4:37 | title6 = Kerrigan | note6 = composed by Blizzard Entertainment | length6 = 4:14 | title7 = I Felt It Was You | note7 = composed by "Mina" | length7 = 3:39 | title8 = John's Prediction | note8 = composed by "MC Sniper" | length8 = 5:08 | title9 = Overmind Theme | note9 = composed by Nam Koong Yun | length9 = 3:55 | title10 = For Adun (Protoss Theme) | note10 = composed by "Novasonic" | length10 = 2:46 | title11 = Rescue The Marines (Radio Version) | note11 = composed by "Honey Family" | length11 = 3:32 | title12 = Epilogue | note12 = composed by Blizzard Entertainment | length12 = 5:04 | title13 = Nonstop Remix | note13 = composed by Blizzard Entertainment | length13 = 6:53 }} ==Expansions and versions== ===PC expansions=== {{further|[[StarCraft (series)#Insurrection|Insurrection]], [[StarCraft (series)#Retribution|Retribution]], [[StarCraft: Brood War]]}} Shortly before the release of ''StarCraft'', Blizzard Entertainment developed a [[shareware]] [[game demo]] campaign, entitled ''Loomings''. Comprising of three missions and a tutorial, the campaign acts as a prequel to the events of ''StarCraft'', taking place on a [[Confederacy of Man|Confederate]] colony in the process of being overrun by the [[Zerg]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blizzard.com/us/starcraft/scdemo.html|title=''StarCraft'' - PC Demo|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref> In October 1999, Blizzard Entertainment made the prequel available for the full game as a custom map campaign, adding two extra missions and hosting it on [[Battle.net]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.battle.net/scc/OS/precursor.shtml|title=Map Archives: Precursor Campaign|work=[[Battle.net]]|date=1999-10-13|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref> In addition, the full release of ''StarCraft'' included a secondary campaign entitled ''Enslavers''. Consisting of five missions played as both the [[Terran (StarCraft)|Terrans]] and the [[Protoss]], ''Enslavers'' is set in the second episode of ''StarCraft'' and follows the story of a Terran smuggler who manages to take control of a Zerg [[cerebrate]] and is pursued by both the Protoss and [[Terran Dominion]]. ''Enslavers'' acts as an exemplar single-player campaign for the game's [[StarCraft Campaign Editor|Campaign Editor]], highlighting how to use the features of the program.<ref>{{cite book|language=English|chapter=The Campaign Editor|pages=page 24|author=Underwood, Peter|coauthors=Roper, Bill; Metzen, Chris; Vaughn, Jeffrey|title=StarCraft (manual)|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|year=[[1998]]}}</ref> [[Image:Battlecruiser fleets (StarCraft).png|right|thumb|Two [[Terran (StarCraft)|Terran]] fleets in a multiplayer match]] ''StarCraft''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s first expansion, ''[[Insurrection (StarCraft)|Insurrection]]'', was released for Windows 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=2007-11-29}}</ref> The expansion was developed by Aztech New Media and authorised 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=2007-07-19}}</ref> Its story focused on a separate Confederate colony alluded to in the manual to ''StarCraft'', following a group of Terran colonists and a Protoss fleet in their fight against the Zerg and a rising local insurgency. ''Insurrection'' was not received well, being criticised 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=[[August 26]] [[1998]]|accessdate=2007-11-29}}</ref> ''Insurrection'' was followed within a few months by a second expansion, ''[[Retribution (StarCraft)|Retribution]]''. Developed by [[Stardock]], published by [[WizardWorks Software]] and authorized by Blizzard Entertainment,<ref name="battlenet faq"/> ''Retribution'' follows all three races attempting to seize control of a powerful crystal on a Terran Dominion colony. The expansion was not received with critical support, instead being 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=2007-11-29|publisher=GameGenie}}</ref> After the release of ''Retribution'', Blizzard Entertainment announced a new official expansion pack that would continue on the story of ''StarCraft''. ''[[StarCraft: Brood War]]'' was consequently created, developed jointly by Blizzard Entertainment and [[Saffire (video game developer)|Saffire]]. ''Brood War'' continues the story of ''StarCraft'' from days after its conclusion, and was released for both Windows and Mac OS to critical praise<ref name="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=[[June 07]] [[2002]]|accessdate=2007-11-04}}</ref><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=[[December 23]] [[1998]]|accessdate=2007-11-04}}</ref> on [[30 November]] [[1998]] in the US and in March 1999 in Europe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/mac/strategy/starcraftbroodwar/index.html|title=''StarCraft: Brood War'' for MAC|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2007-11-29}}</ref> ===Nintendo 64 version=== In 2000, ''StarCraft 64'' was released for the [[Nintendo 64]], co-developed by [[Blizzard Entertainment]] and [[THQ|Mass Media Interactive Entertainment]]. The game featured all of the missions from both ''StarCraft'' and the expansion ''Brood War'', as well as some exclusive missions, such as two different tutorials and a new secret mission, ''Resurrection IV''.<ref name="GSpotN64"/> ''Resurrection IV'' is set after the conclusion of ''Brood War'', and follows [[Jim Raynor]] embarking on a mission to rescue the ''Brood War'' character [[Alexei Stukov]], a vice admiral from Earth who has been captured by the Zerg. The ''Brood War'' missions required the use of a Nintendo 64 memory [[Expansion Pak]] to run.<ref>{{cite web | title = ''StarCraft'' Needs Some Expansion| publisher=[[IGN]] |date = [[1999-11-16]]| url = http://ign64.ign.com/articles/072/072204p1.html| accessdate = 2006-08-19}}</ref> ''StarCraft 64'' was not as popular as the PC version, and lacked the online multiplayer capabilities and speech in mission briefings. In addition, cut scenes were shortened.<ref name="GSpotN64"/> Blizzard Entertainment had previously considered a [[PlayStation]] port of the game, but it was decided that the game would instead be released on the Nintendo 64.<ref>{{cite web | title = ''StarCraft'' on PlayStation?| publisher=[[IGN]]|date = [[1998-04-06]]| url = http://psx.ign.com/articles/064/064554p1.html| accessdate = 2006-08-19}}</ref> ==Cultural impact== ===Reception=== {{VG Reviews |Allgame = {{Rating|4.5|5}}<ref name="allgame">{{cite web|url=http://www.allgame.com/cg/agg.dll?p=agg&sql=1:6109~T1|author=House, Michael L|title=''StarCraft'': Review|publisher=[[Allgame]]|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> (PC & Mac) |GamePro = 4.5/5<ref name="GamePro">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamepro.com/computer/pc/games/reviews/818.shtml|author=Olafson, Peter|date=[[24 November]] [[2000]]|title=Review: ''StarCraft'' for PC|publisher=[[GamePro]]|accessdate=2008-01-09}}</ref> (PC & Mac)<br>4.5/5<ref name="GameProN64">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamepro.com/nintendo/n64/games/reviews/6252.shtml|title=Review: ''StarCraft'' for N64|date=[[24 November]][[2000]]|publisher=[[GamePro]]|accessdate=2008-01-10}}</ref> (Nintendo 64) |GameRev = B<ref name="GameRev">{{cite web|url=http://www.game-revolution.com/games/pc/strategy/starcraft.htm|title=''StarCraft'' Review|publisher=[[Game Revolution]]|date=April 1998|accessdate=2008-01-09}}</ref> (PC & Mac) |GSpot = 9.1/10<ref name="GSpot">{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=tabs&tag=tabs;reviews|title=''StarCraft'' for PC Review|author=Dulin, Ron|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|date=[[15 April]] [[1998]]|accessdate=2008-01-09}}</ref> (PC & Mac)<br>8.4/10<ref name="GSpotN64">{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/n64/strategy/starcraft64/review.html?tag=tabs;reviews|title=''StarCraft 64'' for Nintendo 64 Review|author=Fielder, Joe|date=[[12 June]] [[2000]]|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2008-01-10}}</ref> (Nintendo 64) |IGN = 9.5/10<ref name="ignr">{{cite web | author = Chick, Tom| title = ''StarCraft''| publisher=[[IGN]]| date = [[2000-06-02]]| url = http://pc.ign.com/articles/152/152159p1.html | accessdate = 2006-08-19 }}</ref> (PC & Mac)<br>7.7/10<ref name="IGNN64">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ign64.ign.com/articles/153/153894p1.html|title=''StarCraft 64'' Review|author=Boulding, Aaron|date=[[09 June]] [[2000]]|accessdate=2008-01-10}}</ref> (Nintendo 64) |PCGUK = 92%<ref name="MC"/> (PC & Mac) |PCZone = 8.8/10<ref name="PCZ">{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=3468|title=''StarCraft'' review|publisher=[[PC Zone]]|date=[[13 August]] [[2001]]|accessdate=2008-01-09}}</ref> (PC & Mac) | |compilation = yes | |MC = 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> (PC & Mac)<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> (Nintendo 64) |GR = 93%<ref name="GR">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/25418.asp?q=StarCraft|title=''StarCraft'' Reviews|publisher=[[Game Rankings]]|accessdate=2008-01-09}}</ref> (PC & Mac)<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> (Nintendo 64) |MBR = 92%<ref name="Moby">{{cite web|url=http://www.mobygames.com/game/windows/starcraft|title=''StarCraft'' for Windows|publisher=[[MobyGames]]|accessdate=2008-01-09}}</ref> (PC & Mac)<br>80%<ref name="Moby64">{{cite web|url=http://www.mobygames.com/game/n64/starcraft-64-|title=''StarCraft'' for Nintendo 64|publisher=[[MobyGames]]|accessdate=2008-04-18}}</ref> (Nintendo 64) | |award1 = Greatest Games of All Time - [[GameSpot]]<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]]|date=1998|accessdate=2008-09-01}}</ref> |award2= Game of the Year - [[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences|AIAS]]<ref name="awardss"/> |award3 = Game of the Year - ''[[Computer Gaming World]]''<ref name="awardss"/> |award4 = Game of the Year - ''[[PC PowerPlay]]''<ref name="awardss"/> |award5 = [[Real-time strategy|RTS]] Game of the Year - ''[[PC Gamer]]''<ref name="awardss"/> |award6 = Strategy Game of the Year - [[Games Domain]]<ref name="awardss"/> }} ''StarCraft'' was released internationally on [[31 March]] [[1998]] and 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=2006-08-19}}</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=2008-01-09 |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 Entertainment Press Release| publisher=Bloomberg.com | date = [[1999-02-04]]| url = http://www.diabloii.net/pressdesk/blizpr4feb99.htm| accessdate = 2006-08-20}}</ref> Since then, ''StarCraft'' remains one of the most popular online games in the world.<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 = 2006-08-20}}</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=2008-01-09 |author=Schiesel, Seth |date=2007-05-21 |publisher=[[The New York Times]]}}</ref> Generally, ''StarCraft'' was received positively by critics, with many contemporary reviewers noting that while the game may not have deviated significantly from the status quo of most real-time strategy games, it was one of the best games to date to subscribe to that formula.<ref name="GSpot"/><ref name="GamePro"/> In addition, ''StarCraft''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s pioneering use of three distinct, unique and balanced races over two equal sides was praised by critics,<ref name="ignr"/> with [[GameSpot]] commenting that this helped the game to "avoid the problem that has plagued every other game in the genre".<ref name="GSpot"/> Many critics also praised the strength of the story accompanying the game, with some reviewers being impressed by how well the story was folded into the gameplay.<ref name="ignr"/> Equally, the multiplayer aspects of the game were positively received. ''StarCraft'' has received multiple awards, including being named as one of the best games of all time by both GameSpot and [[IGN]].<ref name="GspotAward"/><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 = 2006-08-18 }}</ref><ref >{{cite web | title = IGN's Top 100 Games | publisher = [[IGN]] | date = [[2003-01-01]]| url = http://top100.ign.com/2003/1-10.html | accessdate = 2006-08-18 }}</ref> According to Blizzard Entertainment ''StarCraft'' has won 37 awards, and has received a star on the floor of the [[Metreon]] as part of the [[Walk of Game]] in San Francisco in early 2006.<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> Although at the time ''StarCraft''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s graphics, voice acting and audio were praised by critics,<ref name="allgame"/> later reviews have noted that the graphics had not aged well in comparison to more modern games.<ref name="ignr"/> The capacity for the game's [[artificial intelligence]] to navigate units to waypoints also faced some heavy criticism, with ''[[PC Zone]]'' stating that the inability for developers to make an effective pathfinding system was "the single most infuriating element of the real-time strategy genre".<ref name="PCZ"/> In addition, several reviewers expressed concern over some familiarities between the unit structures of each race, as well as over the potential imbalance of players using [[Rush (computer and video games)|rushing tactics]] early in multiplayer games.<ref name="GameRev"/> Blizzard Entertainment has strived to balance rush tactics in later updates. The Nintendo 64 version of the game was not received as positively by reviewers, and was criticised for poor graphics in comparison to the PC version. However, critics did praise the game and [[THQ|Mass Media]] for using effective controls on the gamepad and maintaining the high quality audio.<ref name="GameProN64"/><ref name="GSpotN64"/><ref name="IGNN64"/> ===Legacy=== {{seealso|StarCraft professional competition}} ''StarCraft'''s use of three distinct races is often credited for having revolutionised the real-time strategy genre. GameSpot described ''StarCraft'' as "the defining game of its genre. It is the standard by which all real-time strategy games are judged."<ref name="GspotAward"/> while [[IGN]] stated that ''StarCraft'' "is hands down one of the best, if not the best, real-time strategy games ever created."<ref name ="popular"/> ''StarCraft'' is frequently included in the industry's best games rankings, with it ranked 37 in [[Edge (magazine)|''Edge''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s]] top 100 games of all time.<ref name="Edge">{{cite web|url=http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6231&Itemid=2&limit=1&limitstart=6|title=Top 100 Games|publisher=''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]''|date=2007-07-02|accessdate=2008-05-21}}</ref> ''StarCraft'' has even been taken into space, as [[Daniel T. Barry|Daniel Barry]] took a copy of the game with him on the [[Space Shuttle program|Space Shuttle]] mission [[STS-96]] in 1999.<ref name="SCSpace">{{cite web|url=http://blizzard.com/us/starcraft/sis/|title=''StarCraft'' In Space|publisher=[[Blizzard Entertainment]]|accessdate=2008-04-23}}</ref> After its release, ''StarCraft'' rapidly grew in popularity in South Korea, establishing a successful 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 = 2007-04-26}}</ref> Professional gamers in South Korea are media celebrities, and ''StarCraft'' games are broadcast over three television channels dedicated to the professional gaming scene.<ref name="lim">{{cite web|author = Evers, Marco| title = THE BOYS WITH THE FLYING FINGERS: South Korea Turns PC Gaming into a Spectator Sport| publisher=Der Spiegel |date = [[2006-02-06]]| url = http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/spiegel/0,1518,399476,00.html| accessdate = 2006-08-19}}</ref> Professional gamers in South Korea have gained television contracts, sponsorships, and tournament prizes, allowing one of the most famous players, [[Lim Yo-Hwan]],<ref>{{cite web | author = Totilo, Stephen| title = Playa Rater: The 10 Most Influential Video Gamers Of All Time | publisher=MTVNews.com | date = [[2006-06-21]]| url = http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1534641/20060620/index.jhtml?headlines=tru|(link)| accessdate = 2006-08-31 }}</ref> to gain a fan club of over half a million people.<ref name="pop">{{cite web | author = Cho, Kevin| title = Samsung, SK Telecom, Shinhan Sponsor South Korean Alien Killers | publisher=Bloomberg.com | date = [[2006-01-15]]| url = http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=email_us&refer=asia&sid=a2JvzciDnpB4| accessdate = 2006-08-18 }}</ref> Professional gamers dedicate a lot of time playing ''StarCraft'' to prepare for the highly competitive leagues. One player, [[Lee Yun-Yeol]], reported earnings in 2005 of [[United States dollar|US$]]200,000.<ref name="fans"/> ===Merchandise=== {{further|[[StarCraft (series)#Novelizations|Novelisations in the StarCraft series]]}} The storyline of ''StarCraft'' has been adapted into several novels. The first novel, ''Uprising'', which was written by Blizzard employee Micky Neilson and published in December 2000, acts as a prequel to the events of ''StarCraft''.<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=2007-12-02}}</ref> Other novels&mdash;''[[StarCraft: Liberty's Crusade|Liberty's Crusade]]'' by [[Jeff Grubb]]<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=2007-12-02}}</ref> and [[Aaron S. Rosenberg|Aaron Rosenberg's]] ''[[StarCraft: Queen of Blades]]''<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=2007-12-02}}</ref>&mdash;retell the story of the game from different perspectives. At [[BlizzCon]] 2007, ''StarCraft'' creator [[Chris Metzen]] stated that he hoped to novelise the entirety of ''StarCraft'' and its expansion ''Brood War'' into a definitive text-based story. Later novels, such as [[Gabriel Mesta|Gabriel Mesta's]] ''[[StarCraft: Shadow of the Xel'Naga|Shadow of the Xel'Naga]]''<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=2007-12-02}}</ref> and [[Christie Golden|Christie Golden's]] ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga]]'',<ref name="Golden1">{{cite web|url=http://blizzplanet.com/content/683/|title=''StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga'' trilogy interview with Christie Golden|date=[[02 April]] [[2007]]|accessdate=2007-12-02|publisher=Blizzplanet}}</ref> further expand the storyline, creating the setting for ''[[StarCraft II]]''. 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| date=September 1998| accessdate=2007-07-08}}</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| title=1/30 scale Terran marine model by Academy| publisher=Hobby Outlet| accessdate=2007-07-08}}</ref> and the hydralisk.<ref name="hydramodel">{{cite web| url=http://www.hobbyoutlets.com/acy/2017.htm| title=1/30 scale Zerg hydralisk model by Academy| publisher=Hobby Outlet| accessdate=2007-07-08}}</ref> In addition, Blizzard Entertainment teamed up with [[Fantasy Flight Games]] to create a [[StarCraft the Board Game|board game]] with detailed sculptures of game characters.<ref>{{cite web | author =Wilson, Kevin | title = Playtest in Minneapolis at the Source on 6/16/06| work = Boardgame Geek |date = [[2006-06-13]]| url = http://www.boardgamegeek.com/thread/113938| accessdate = 2006-08-19}}</ref> Blizzard Entertainment also licensed [[Wizards of the Coast]] to produce an [[Alternity]] based game entitled ''[[StarCraft Adventures]]''. ==References== {{reflist|2}} ==External links== {{wikiquote}} * [http://www.blizzard.com/starcraft/ Official ''StarCraft'' website] * [http://www.battle.net/scc/ The ''StarCraft'' Compendium on Battle.net] * [http://www.blizzard.com/ Blizzard Entertainment company site] * [http://www.massmedia.com/ Mass Media Interactive Entertainment company site] {{StarCraft series}} {{StarCraft Pro-Gaming}} {{Blizzard games}} {{featured article}} [[Category:1998 video games]] [[Category:Blizzard games]] [[Category:Cooperative video games]] [[Category:Interactive Achievement Award winners]] [[Category:Isometric video games]] [[Category:Mac OS games]] [[Category:Mac OS X games]] [[Category:Military science fiction]] [[Category:Multiplayer online games]] [[Category:Multiplayer null modem games]] [[Category:Nintendo 64 games]] [[Category:Origins Award winners]] [[Category:Real-time strategy video games]] [[Category:Science fiction video games]] [[Category:StarCraft]] [[Category:Video games with expansion packs]] [[Category:Windows games]] {{link FA|hu}} {{link FA|ko}} [[ang:SteorraCræft]] [[ar:ستار كرافت]] [[bg:StarCraft]] [[ca:StarCraft]] [[cs:StarCraft]] [[da:StarCraft]] [[de:StarCraft]] [[es:StarCraft]] [[fa:استارکرافت]] [[fr:StarCraft]] [[ko:스타크래프트]] [[hr:StarCraft]] [[id:StarCraft]] [[it:StarCraft]] [[he:סטארקראפט]] [[ku:StarCraft]] [[lt:Starcraft]] [[jbo:starkraft]] [[hu:StarCraft]] [[nl:StarCraft]] [[ja:スタークラフト]] [[no:StarCraft]] [[nn:StarCraft]] [[pl:StarCraft]] [[pt:StarCraft]] [[ro:StarCraft]] [[ru:StarCraft]] [[sco:Starcraft]] [[simple:StarCraft]] [[sk:StarCraft]] [[sr:StarCraft]] [[fi:StarCraft]] [[sv:StarCraft]] [[th:สตาร์คราฟต์]] [[vi:StarCraft]] [[tr:StarCraft]] [[uk:StarCraft]] [[bat-smg:Starcraft]] [[zh:星際爭霸]]