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BLIZZARD ENTERTAINMENT · BATTLE.NET

StarCraft II

The gold standard of real-time strategy.

Free to playStrategyThe benchmark competitive RTS
RTSCompetitiveEsportsCampaign

What it is

StarCraft II is Blizzard's defining real-time strategy game. Its precise, fast competitive play made it a cornerstone of esports, while its campaigns and co-op missions are widely praised. The core multiplayer is free to play through Battle.net, with campaigns available separately.

Why play it

  • The most refined competitive RTS ever made.
  • Free multiplayer with a fair, skill-based ladder.
  • Excellent campaigns and co-op missions.
Worth knowing

The skill ceiling is extremely high — expect a steep climb in ranked play.

How to get started

StarCraft II is free to play and installs through the Battle.net — not Steam. Download the official client from the Blizzard Entertainment site, create or sign in to your account, and you are ready to play. Its pricing and availability are always managed by Blizzard Entertainment on the official channels.

FAQ

StarCraft II — common questions

Is StarCraft II free to play?

Yes — StarCraft II is free to play. You can download and start playing at no cost via the Battle.net. It may offer optional purchases, but they are not required to play.

Is StarCraft II on Steam?

No. StarCraft II is not listed on Steam. It is currently distributed through the Battle.net, so it is not included in this site's Steam price feed or comparisons.

What do I need to play StarCraft II on PC?

You need the Battle.net and a Blizzard Entertainment account. Download the official client from the Blizzard Entertainment website, sign in or create an account, then install and launch the game.

What kind of game is StarCraft II?

StarCraft II is a strategy game by Blizzard Entertainment. A free real-time strategy landmark with a deep competitive ladder and acclaimed single-player campaigns.