Perhaps one of the most popular games today since its release last July is Blizzard Entertainment’s Starcraft 2. I myself am an avid fan of Starcraft. I am not a Starcraft pro-gamer nor a guru in this game but I would like to share some basic tips on how to win games in Starcraft 2. These tips, when executed properly will most likely give a huge ‘W’ for you and your team.
Research and Study the Game
This is probably one of the things that most casual gamers don’t do. But in a strategy game like Starcraft 2, it is important to take some time reading about the gameplay, unit statistics and other essential information that can be used to your advantage. Go to the Help section of Starcraft 2 and read on the unit statistics. Be sure to take note of the pros and cons of using a certain unit types. Take note of the strengths and weaknesses of the units, build times and technology trees. Having the textbook Starcraft 2 knowledge will surely be a gaming edge for you.
Mining and Expansion
In order to build structures and units in Starcraft 2, you will need two kinds of resources, the minerals and vespene gas. Be sure to have enough number of miners for your resources. The ideal number of miners in a mineral field is three, same thing with the vespene gas. It will be a disadvantage on your end if you have few miners in your base. Also learn to expand when you feel that the time is right. Having a well-defended expansion base is definitely a boost in your economy.
Learn to Scout Consistently
It is very essential to scout the enemy’s base in the early part of the game. When you scout, you will have an idea of the initial plans of your opponent. Will he put up a Zealot rush? Will he rain down Marines on my base? Will he ‘cannon rush’ me? Scouting is the key. But scouting is not just applicable in the early game. Be sure to also scout your opponents throughout the entire battle. Terrans have scanner sweeps. Protoss have observers. Zergs have Changelings that can spy on your enemy without being noticed.
Just Spend Those Resources
Don’t wait for your minerals or gas to reach over a thousand. Those are wasted opportunities to have new units in your army or a new structure in your base. A good Starcraft player will always have low mineral and gas count because he is efficiently utilizing his resources.
Learn to Micro Effectively
This is perhaps one of the hardest things to do to help you win games in Starcraft 2. When you say micro, you are effectively controlling your units. A specific example is during a clash of armies. You check for your units with low remaining HP’s and pull them out of harm’s way just in time. Micro-ing your units during a battle can be very tiring and will cause a great amount of effort but saving that dying Battlecruiser will surely make a huge difference. Start with micro-ing large units. Practice the art of micro-ing every game and when you are well-versed enough in micro-ing, go for smaller units.
These are just some of the things that you need to know and apply in playing the game of Starcraft 2. Be sure to check back here for more tips on how to win games in Starcraft 2. Next time, I will be posting specific tips and tricks for each race. I will also post some defensive and offensive strategies.