Real time strategy (RTS) games are something else.

These games tend to turn most off since they require quick thinking and analysis. They also require lots and lots of practice and patience. Many people are intimidated by these type of games since they seem so complicated. This is unavoidable, since most RTS communities are condescending and unforgiving to the newcomers, forcing them to completely avoid online play. Personally, I don’t blame new users, since I felt the same way for a great deal of time.

I reluctantly purchased StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty a while ago, and for good reason. This game can be VERY addictive. Let me describe the stages I’ve gone through with it.

Step 1 – Initial purchase and shelf. Yeah, it sat there for a good 2-3 weeks unplayed due to … Minecraft.
Step 2 – Began Single player campaign, and saw the appeal of the story. Shelved again for Minecraft.
Step 3 – Began watching more competitive play at GSL and IEM. Inspired and awed by professionals.
Step 4 – Began playing against the AI (computer player) to get the basics of the mechanics for the Zerg race.
Step 5 – Watched more and more GSL tournaments and began playing on official battle.net ladders. Placed in bronze league.
Step 6 (Now) – Played over 50 ladder matches, practicing hotkey mechanics against AI. Having dreams about “We require more minerals” voice.

Image courtesy of fuxorz@deviantart

It took a while, but I’ve been bitten by the StarCraft bug. Ow! I’m by no means a high level player like you’ll see on justin.tv often, but I’m having fun, and that’s the whole point. Lots of players take the game way too seriously, and end up frustrated in the end. My goal with every video game I play is to have fun. If it’s not fun, it’s not worth playing.

As a result of the newest craze, our Bwana.TV gaming community hosts friendly matches every Friday night to mainly help new players get better. We call it “StarCraft 2 community night”:

Our next one is scheduled for November 5th, 2010 at around 8PM EST at live.bwana.tv. If you’re a new StarCraft 2 player, and are intimidated by online play, this night is for you! Stop on by and participate.

Also, if you’re in the market for a strategy guide, try out Diamond Gamer. It’s a nifty in-game plugin for StarCraft 2 that guarantees (with money back guarantee) that you’ll be a Diamond Level StarCraft 2 player in no time.

Post written by Bwana