The dream of a Blizzard-developed StarCraft shooter has been alive since StarCraft: Ghost‘s initial announcement in 2002. While the project’s eventual cancellation seemingly dashed those hopes, a recent interview with Jason Schreier on IGN has reignited that spark. Could this be third time’s the charm for a StarCraft FPS?
In the interview, Schreier stated definitively that “StarCraft is not dead at Blizzard.” He revealed the existence of a project focused on a shooter within the StarCraft universe, acknowledging the possibility of cancellation, given the history of previous attempts.
Details are scarce. Schreier offered no information on gameplay mechanics, release timelines, or even whether it would be first- or third-person. However, the involvement of Dan Hay, director of Far Cry 5, as project lead is a promising sign.
Starcraft 2
The first attempt, StarCraft: Ghost, was envisioned as a third-person stealth action game centered around the Ghost unit, a psionic spy-commando. Announced in 2002, it was put on hold in 2006, and after years of silence, officially canceled in 2014. Schreier also mentioned a second, canceled project codenamed Ares, reportedly inspired by Battlefield, which was ultimately shelved in favor of other titles.
So, why the renewed optimism? Blizzard’s current position is significantly stronger than in recent years. With Microsoft’s financial backing, the project has secure funding. Dan Hay’s leadership brings valuable experience to the table. And with the single-player campaigns of both StarCraft and StarCraft 2 now available on Game Pass, the timing is ideal for Blizzard to leverage the franchise’s renewed popularity and nostalgic appeal.
