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Starcraft
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Strategy games aren't normally known for having good stories or good endings. In most cases, the journey is the reward. However, Starcraft changed how we looked at stories in strategy games. There were heroes, complex characters, and a twisting and well-written storyline that pervaded the gameplay. And capping every campaign's storyline was a finely crafted ending. The Terran ending featured a propaganda-laden speech from leader Arcturus Mengsk, extolling Terran strength and solidarity. The Zerg ending was a transition from the Zerg campaign into the Protoss campaign, and it gave you a frightening and dark glimpse at Aiur overrun by the ravenous hordes of the Zerg. And finally, when you fought through the crucible of the Protoss missions, you came to the Protoss ending, which was a powerful and poignant end to the entire three-part Starcraft saga.
Throughout the Protoss campaign, it was clear that the Protoss were fighting an uphill battle against impossible odds. The way to victory was arduous and tragic, for the Protoss had to fight a civil war within their ranks before they could turn against the real menace of the Zerg Overmind. Finally, you came to the last Protoss mission, and all the remaining heroes had gathered. The Conclave finally apologized for its shortsightedness and gave you its blessings in the final battle against the Zerg hordes.
When victory was at hand, one final sacrifice had to be made to seal victory. Although the Starcraft ending was obviously inspired by many Japanese space anime, it was an impressive and dramatic cinematic conclusion to the game. The music was inspiring, and it built in intensity as the Protoss hero Tassadar steered his carrier ever closer to the Overmind's lair. You saw the Zerg remnants try to stop Tassadar's ship, and you stared into Tassadar's resolute eyes. Then you bore witness to Tassadar's sacrifice, as he converted himself and his ship into a massive energy bolt that sped to the Overmind and destroyed it. It was a great ending, especially for a strategy game, and it hinted at more to come.
Next: The epic ending
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