Updated StarCraft II Campaign Impressions
Playing the beta? Here's what you're missing.

I don't envy the team at Blizzard who has to design StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty. Following up one of the biggest PC games of all time is no easy feat, and the demands of nostalgic fans must be overwhelming. Think about it: If Blizzard were to release a game that was largely the same but with better visuals people would complain they didn't do enough, but if they drastically change the core gameplay elements -- like so many other RTS games have done lately -- franchise veterans would scream and shout that they destroyed all the good things about the original game.

But Blizzard is a company full of experts in their craft, and has made a game that feels wonderfully balanced between being "something new" and "something familiar." Alongside the mostly recognizable artstyle and classic gameplay elements that other RTS franchises have largely abandoned (harvesting resources, for instance), Blizzard has introduced loads of new lore and customization options that will give even the most hardcore StarCraft player something to experience for the first time. And if multiplayer is your thing, or you think it might be and are scared to try it because you don't know what you're doing, Blizzard's kept you in mind, too. A new series of Challenges are included for players to tackle in order to cut their teeth before diving headlong into multiplayer, or for seasoned players to play in order to see just how good their skills really are.
I know what you're thinking, you're thinking "I've read a ton about SC2's singleplayer, what new things could they have to tell me about at this point?" The truth? A lot. During my recent time with a couple of new levels in the campaign I was surprised with how complex the systems were for customizing your campaign playthrough. Along with the previously revealed ability to use the cash you earn in missions on permanent upgrades for your army, Blizzard has now figured out how research will work. In-between missions players can go to their lab, wherein they can look at their progress in Zerg and Protoss research. When a player reaches a certain amount of points -- gained through doing side objectives in missions, or through finding artifacts -- they get the option to pick between two permanent upgrades. For instance players who get enough points in the Protoss research tree can pick between permanently giving their marines +5% weapon damage or additional damage resistance. Later upgrades grant access to substantial, game-changing bonuses like the ability for Vespene Gas mines to operate without SCVs, or for supply depots to be built instantly. These bonuses are fantastic ways to reward players who go out of their way to complete secondary objectives and explore each map, and offer substantial rewards that further allow players to tailor their army to their style of play.

To check out the bonuses you'll get through research (at least, as they stand now at this point in development) see the table below.  Anthony Gallegos