Blizzard's release of StarCraft was eagerly anticipated by Real Time Strategy fans, and with good reason. Instead of two similarly powered enemies facing off, the three distinct races in StarCraft have unique capabilities and strategies. Everyone still competes in the RTS genre's typical race for resources, but that's the only shared trait. Terrans can move their bulky mechanised bases as necessary, while the reptilian Zerg grow their colonies and warriors from mutating larvae. Meanwhile, the noble Protoss warp in equipment from their home world using psionic powers.

Not only does Blizzard juggle the races' playability and match it with superb art and sound effects, it also weaves together an engrossing three-act plot. Early on, as a Terran Magistrate, you spend a breathtaking 30 minutes defending against a Zerg onslaught. As the story unfolds around you, you'll experience the Zerg's hive mentality, and decipher the mysterious Protoss by the game's dramatic conclusion.

Missions vary in scope and are effectively framed with dialogue, chapter screens, and in-mission exposition. Multiplayer is also very well represented by Blizzard's own free battle.net service. If you'd rather play over a local-area network, StarCraft will generously "spawn" up to seven copies so your friends can join in. --Jack Gardiner

StarCraft puts you in charge of a small group of humans exiled to the edge of the galaxy. Your mission is to acquire the resources needed to train and expand your military to defend against the Confederate Nations, who are also battling for control of the galaxy's precious resources. This game is designed for multiplayer use.