Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about StarCraft.
What is StarCraft?
StarCraft is a seminal real-time strategy video game series set in the distant Koprulu Sector, where three distinct alien races—the Terrans, Zerg, and Protoss—fight for survival. Originally released by Blizzard Entertainment in 1998, it revolutionized competitive gaming with its deep strategic mechanics and balanced asymmetrical gameplay.
Who are the main protagonists?
The story primarily follows Jim Raynor, a rugged Terran rebel leader; Sarah Kerrigan, a human ghost who becomes the Zerg Overmind's Queen of Blades before reclaiming her humanity; and Artanis, a high-ranking Protoss Daelaam commander. These characters drive the narrative across three games as they navigate political intrigue and existential threats.
Which game should I play first?
Newcomers should begin with StarCraft: Remastered or the original StarCraft to experience the foundational campaign that introduces the core lore and mechanics. While StarCraft II offers modern graphics, the original trilogy's story arc is essential for understanding the full context of the universe.
What are the three playable races?
The Terrans are humans who rely on modular technology and heavy armor; the Zerg are a hive-mind swarm that evolves through rapid biological adaptation; and the Protoss are an ancient, psionic species utilizing advanced energy-based technology. Each race possesses unique units, abilities, and strategic playstyles.
Why is StarCraft considered so competitive?
The game demands exceptional multitasking, precise resource management, and quick decision-making under intense pressure due to its steep learning curve and perfect balance between races. This depth has sustained a massive professional esports scene for over two decades, particularly in South Korea.
What is the 'Queen of Blades'?
The Queen of Blades refers to Sarah Kerrigan after she was infested by the Zerg Overmind and transformed into their supreme leader. She serves as the primary antagonist in StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty before becoming a tragic anti-hero seeking redemption.
What is the significance of the Xel'Naga?
The Xel'Naga are an ancient, god-like precursor race that seeded life across the galaxy to create perfect beings capable of overcoming entropy. Their arrival and departure act as the catalyst for the conflicts between the Protoss and Zerg throughout the series.
How does the story progress?
The narrative unfolds chronologically through three main campaigns: StarCraft, Brood War, and the StarCraft II trilogy (Wings of Liberty, Heart of the Swarm, Legacy of the Void). Each installment advances the plot by resolving one conflict while introducing a larger existential threat.
What is 'Brood War'?
Brood War was an expansion pack released in 1998 that continued the story immediately after the original game's conclusion. It is renowned for its intense, fast-paced multiplayer balance and critical plot developments regarding Kerrigan's transformation.
Is there a StarCraft movie or show?
While no live-action film exists, Blizzard produced 'StarCraft: The Board Game' and an animated series called 'StarCraft: Ghost' was planned but never released. However, the franchise has inspired extensive lore books, comics, and short films that expand on the universe.