The new StarCraft title currently in development at Blizzard will be a narrative-driven open-world shooter. Project lead Dan Hay has confirmed that the game features a complete story with a definitive ending, and the current development direction is not based on a seasonal model.
The title was officially unveiled at BlizzCon and will no longer follow the real-time strategy gameplay of the StarCraft series. Former Far Cry series lead Dan Hay now serves as the project's General Manager and Creative Director, describing the game's current envisioned structure as a "box product" rather than a live-service game with seasonal updates.
According to the current design, players can name their own character and then progress through that character's story. Dan Hay stated that the plot includes a beginning, middle, and end, allowing players to freely explore a content-rich open world.
It sounds like the new StarCraft game will not be a live-service title, or at least will have very few such elements. If that's the case, fans should be delighted. Blizzard seems to be aiming for a game similar to Far Cry but set in the StarCraft universe, which is appealing enough on its own without needing extra frills.
However, Hay also cautioned that things could change in the coming months or even years. "You can freely explore a rich open world, but our story has a clear ending. You can think of it as buying a standalone boxed game, playing it, and experiencing its story. We hope players enjoy it, fall in love with it, and return in the future. At least, the game we are currently developing is not a seasonal game."
If they choose to go down this path, a structure similar to the Borderlands series seems like a safe compromise. The trailer clearly has vibes reminiscent of Helldivers 2, but it appears it won't rely entirely on online connectivity like that game does.
Hay is the General Manager and Creative Director for the new StarCraft title. He previously held senior management roles on Far Cry 3, Far Cry 4, Far Cry 5, and Far Cry 6, giving him deep insight into what makes successful shooters tick. During his time at Blizzard, he also contributed to several expansions for Diablo IV, further enriching his experience.
Hay previously held senior management roles on Far Cry 6 and joined Blizzard, where he contributed to two expansions for Diablo IV. Blizzard has not yet announced the release date or platforms for the new StarCraft title.