Blizzard Entertainment,a popular video game developer known for its hit titles “World of Warcraft” and “StarCraft.”, added a new addition to its game library with the free to play “Heroes of the Storm.”
“Heroes of the Storm” is a multiplayer online battle arena, a genre that was made popular by “League of Legends” and “Defense of the Ancients.” Heroes stands out from the other MOBAs by placing heavy emphasis on teamwork and objective-based gameplay.
In this game, the most powerful heroes and villains of Blizzard’s games come together in an all-out battle to destroy each other’s bases in a place called the Nexus. Also able to play are iconic characters such as “World of Warcraft’s” Illidan Stormrage and “Starcraft’s” Jim Raynor, giving the game a unique backstory that other MOBA’s lack.
Unlike other MOBAs, Heroes does not have items for your characters to use but instead relies on unique builds of talents and abilities. The lack of items may seem like oversimplification, but it adds a new depth to the game based on your playstyle.
Blizzard developed “Heroes of the Storm” so that matches would be shorter and faster paced compared to the more than hour long matches found in other MOBAs.
The shorter match length can be attributed to a team-based experience system so that each team levels up as a whole instead of individually. Bonus objectives such as collecting pirate coins and becoming a large dragon help with shortening matches or catching up should your team fall behind.
The game has been targeted toward college students from around the United States and Canada and other Blizzard fans. In May, Blizzard held a college student tournament named “Heroes of the Dorm,” giving out college tuition for up to three years to the winning team.
This game’s shortcoming is that individuals who enjoy lone wolf gameplay will find they must rely on their team or they will not succeed. The game also lacks a surrender button, so once you’re in a match, unfortunately you are stuck there until you win or lose.
“Heroes of the Storm” is great for gamers who love team-based gameplay, the Blizzard universe and do not wish to have long matches. It offers a distinctive feel other MOBA’s lack and has great potential as a sport for college students.