Best Blizzard Games, Ranked - Investment Policy

Summary

Blizzard‘s diverse game library includes iconic titles like Starcraft, Warcraft, Diablo, WoW, Overwatch, and Hearthstone.
Expansion packs like Brood War and The Frozen Throne added depth to popular games like Starcraft and Warcraft 3.
Despite controversies, mergers, and departures, Blizzard remains a major player in the video game industry.

One well-known and easily identifiable name in the realm of video games is Blizzard. This renowned company has been instrumental in creating numerous franchise series that have significantly impacted their respective genres and the overall gaming terrain.

The ongoing argument among gamers about which games from this extensive collection are the finest will never cease, mainly due to Blizzard’s diverse production of numerous game genres and types. As a developer who excelled in real-time strategy games and the proprietor of the most thriving MMORPG to date, Blizzard has consistently pushed boundaries and experimented with new genres over time.

10. Starcraft 2: Heart of the Swarm

The Star Of Real-Time Strategy

Before Blizzard introduced expansions for it, Starcraft 2 had already won over fans’ affection. Despite no Starcraft 3 ever being released, the numerous expansions still led players through a multi-layered and engaging narrative. These installments were titled Brood War, Wings of Liberty, Heart of the Swarm, and Legacy of the Void, accompanied by spinoff games that delved into each race’s history in the Starcraft universe.

1998 marked the debut of the initial “Starcraft” game, kick-starting one of the most enduring Real-Time Strategy (RTS) series ever created. Launched in North America on March 31, 1998, this original version of “Starcraft” quickly established itself as a timeless classic.

The initial expansion of the game, titled Brood War, introduced new elements and advanced the game’s narrative. While players could derive plenty of entertainment and competition from the multiplayer options, the ongoing single-player campaign in the expansions and sequel played a significant role in creating rich lore for the franchise.

9. Diablo

An Isometric RPG Nightmare

Back when Diablo was initially rolled out to the public, it stirred up a bit of controversy and faced some challenges, but let’s make one thing clear – it was undeniably cherished in its own right by many fans like myself. The expansion pack, Reaper of Souls, aimed to breathe new life into the game, offering more content for those who felt the initial release fell a bit short.

It’s great that the developers really delivered with this expansion, offering an issue-free game packed with content and countless hours of enjoyment for dedicated players. While some might have preferred a longer campaign, this addition goes a long way in making up for the rocky initial release of the original version.

8. Warcraft: Orcs & Humans

A Simple But Brilliant RTS Concept

The initial release in the series that later became the globally acclaimed massively multiplayer online role-playing game was titled “Orcs & Humans.” Debuting in 1994, a period brimming with real-time strategy games (RTS), this title introduced fundamental concepts such as construction, conquest, and combat. Moreover, it pushed the boundaries of multiplayer functionality, paving the way for future advancements in this area.

In the game “Orcs & Humans”, the player is limited to selecting between two character races, but the gameplay varies based on whether it’s a multiplayer or campaign mode. In multiplayer, the objective remains constant: conquer and vanquish your opponents. However, in campaigns, the player encounters a sequence of missions that have grown increasingly complex and narrative-driven in later games.

7. Warcraft 3

Also Available In An Updated Version, Warcraft: Reforged

As a gamer, I’ve got to say that it wasn’t just Starcraft that made Blizzard a powerhouse in the RTS world. Some might even argue that Warcraft 3, with its groundbreaking influence, is the ultimate RTS experience. After all, it gave birth to an MMORPG behemoth – World of Warcraft – which remains one of the greatest games ever made within this genre. It’s not just a great RTS game; it’s one of the most influential in the history of strategy gaming. Even though its remaster didn’t live up to expectations, the original Warcraft 3 still resonates with its unique charm and spirit.

With the arrival of the “The Frozen Throne” expansion, players were deeply engrossed in Warcraft III and appreciating its exceptional gameplay and captivating narrative. The “Frozen Throne” was poised to contribute more content to this already extensive game, but instead, it became the standout element of the Warcraft III storyline. This expansion pack is highly respected among Blizzard enthusiasts.

6. Diablo 2

Everyone’s Favorite Sequel

The original Diablo was widely acclaimed as one of Blizzard Entertainment’s masterpieces, so anticipation and intense examination were expected when it came to Diablo II. Creating a sequel to an adored work is challenging because developers often feel they are striving for perfection. The Diablo 3: Ultimate Evil Edition, however, brings together this title and the fan-favorite expansion for the original game, Reaper of Souls, into a single PS4 game.

Fortunately, Diablo 2 became an overwhelming triumph, and there are numerous gamers who would contend it accomplishes far more than its forerunner. It’s plausible that Diablo 2 is favored over the original and its creation played a significant role in boosting the popularity of ARPGs, leading to a franchise that remains robust even today.

5. World Of Warcraft

The MMORPG That Was A Game Changer

20 years ago, the globally renowned MMORPG, World of Warcraft, marked its anniversary, having faced some obstacles yet persisting with unabated momentum. The game’s inaugural expansion, titled “The Burning Crusade,” was introduced in 2006, four years following the debut of its original vanilla version. This expansion introduced two new races – one for each faction: the Draenei for the Alliance and Blood Elves for the Horde, who were rooted in the lore from Warcraft 3.

The second addition to the game, titled “Wrath of the Lich King,” drew inspiration from a well-received expansion for the real-time strategy game and catapulted the already popular MMO into unprecedented popularity. This expansion package was launched on November 13, 2008, and astonishingly managed to sell 2.8 million copies within its first day of release. The expansion primarily revolved around Arthas, a beloved character who had transformed into the Lich King, a figure about whom players knew little after “Warcraft 3.”

2010 marked the introduction of a major overhaul, known as “Cataclysm,” to the existing game world. While this expansion brought about significant physical alterations, not all players embraced these changes positively. To accommodate those preferring the original version, contemporary realms have been created, serving as an update for players who enjoy the earlier iteration of the game.

4. Overwatch

The New Generation Of FPS Games

Overwatch, Blizzard Entertainment’s action-packed first-person shooter, ranks as the studio’s sixth most acclaimed game overall based on Metacritic scores. Released for PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One in May 2016, with a Nintendo Switch release following in late 2019, this popular title has consistently garnered praise from both gamers and critics alike.

Upon its debut, the game received a torrent of both critical praise and commercial success. Throughout its lifespan, it has been continually updated with fresh maps and characters. One of the game’s main attractions is its distinctive and meticulously designed hero characters, earning it the moniker “hero shooter.” Each character boasts unique abilities, weapons, equipment, specialties, and customized details, contributing to its enduring popularity.

3. Hearthstone

The Fantasy Card Game Based On Azerothian Lore

In terms of our “Warcraft” universe, the latest and most distinctive intellectual property within the series is “Hearthstone,” launched on March 11, 2014, for both Mac and Windows. This digital card game has been a massive triumph for Blizzard Entertainment due to its integration of “Warcraft” lore, engaging graphics, and RPG elements that complement the designs and characters of the cards.

The game, Hearthstone, was highly praised by critics and generated significant revenue thanks to its unique payment system. In 2014, it was adapted for mobile platforms like Android and iOS to increase its earnings even further. Furthermore, this game has become a major attraction in the esports world due to its competitive nature, garnering massive attention.

2. Starcraft 2

A Highly Anticipated Sequel

The second-place submission is the eagerly anticipated follow-up to the classic game “Starcraft”. Released on July 27, 2010, 12 years following the original Starcraft launch, we have “Starcraft 2: Wings of Liberty”. The initial campaign of this game primarily revolved around the terrain, and subsequently, each expansion that followed concentrated on the other two races.

The game served as a compelling sequel, expanding the narrative and maintaining the same atmosphere as its predecessor. It was divided into three segments, with each part narrating the tale from the perspective of one of the competing factions. “Wings of Liberty” came out in 2010, focusing on the rebellion against the Terran Dominion. “Starcraft 2: Heart of the Swarm,” released in 2013, shifted the focus to the Dominion’s narrative. The final installment, “Starcraft 2: Legacy of the Void,” was launched in 2015 and centered around the Protoss faction.

1. Warcraft Rumble

Fun With Action Figures in RTS Mode

As a fanatic, I’d put it this way: “Step back into the world of Warcraft with me, where RTS gaming meets action figure aesthetics in the engaging, free-to-play mobile game, Warcraft Rumble! Whether you download it through your favorite app store or scan the QR code, this game takes you on a trip down memory lane while offering a fresh, modern twist.

In this game, players get to select characters from Warcraft mythology as their champions, advancing through tower defense and real-time strategy across different levels. Recognizable figures like Grommash Hellscream and Maiev Shadowsong are among those available. These characters guide the player’s troops through locations in Azeroth, a setting featured prominently in Warcraft 3 and World of Warcraft. The game offers various play modes such as single-player campaigns and player-versus-player matches, leading players across the well-known continents of Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor.

2025-01-10 11:56