New free version of StarCraft II announced; Starcraft II: Starter Edition


Blizzard has just announced a new edition for Starcraft II. StarCraft II: Starter Edition allows anyone to play the following Starcraft II content for free. Yeap, you read that right. What’s more interesting is that you can play MP matches for free with this Edition. Consider it an extended demo of Starcraft II if you will, but this is something huge and was really unexpected. And all that is required to enjoy this free version is a Battle.net account and Internet connection.
The Starter Edition gives players access to the first three campaign missions on Mar Sara, and then gives the player the ability to choose a fourth mission – either the first mission offered by Dr. Hanson or the first mission offered by Tychus Findlay in the campaign.
Players will also get access to a pair of Challenge Missions, a selection of multiplayer maps, and a custom-game map. The multiplayer and custom game maps available may be cycled from time to time.
In addition, Starter Edition players can earn achievements within the available content; can view profile, ladder, and achievements pages; and can access many functions of the map editor.
Those interested can sign up for the Starter Edition here.