Warcraft 2 vs. Warcraft: Orcs and Humans

Attribute	Warcraft 2	Warcraft: Orcs and Humans
Release Year	1995	1994
Sequel	Yes	No
Playable Factions	Humans and Orcs	Humans and Orcs
Gameplay	Real-time strategy	Real-time strategy
Graphics	2D	2D

Gameplay

Warcraft 2 and Warcraft: Orcs and Humans are both real-time strategy games developed by Blizzard Entertainment. In terms of gameplay, both games share many similarities. Players must gather resources, build structures, train units, and engage in battles to defeat their opponents. However, Warcraft 2 introduced several new features that were not present in the original Warcraft game. For example, Warcraft 2 introduced naval combat, allowing players to build ships and engage in battles on the seas.

Storyline

One of the key differences between Warcraft 2 and Warcraft: Orcs and Humans is the storyline. Warcraft: Orcs and Humans focuses on the conflict between the human kingdom of Azeroth and the invading orcish horde. The game allows players to play as both factions, experiencing the story from both perspectives. In contrast, Warcraft 2 continues the story of the first game, with the human alliance now facing off against the orcish horde led by the evil warlock Gul'dan.

Graphics

Another major difference between Warcraft 2 and Warcraft: Orcs and Humans is the graphics. Warcraft: Orcs and Humans features 2D graphics with a top-down view of the battlefield. The game's graphics are colorful and detailed, but may appear dated by today's standards. In contrast, Warcraft 2 features improved graphics with a more detailed and vibrant color palette. The game also introduced animated cutscenes to help tell the story, adding to the overall immersion of the game.

Units and Buildings

Both Warcraft 2 and Warcraft: Orcs and Humans feature a variety of units and buildings that players can use to build their armies and bases. However, Warcraft 2 introduced several new units and buildings that were not present in the original game. For example, Warcraft 2 introduced flying units such as dragons and gryphons, as well as new buildings like the shipyard and oil platform. These new additions added depth and strategy to the gameplay, allowing players to experiment with different unit compositions and tactics.

Multiplayer

Multiplayer is an important aspect of both Warcraft 2 and Warcraft: Orcs and Humans. Both games allow players to compete against each other in online matches, testing their skills and strategies against human opponents. However, Warcraft 2 introduced several improvements to the multiplayer experience. The game featured enhanced multiplayer options, including the ability to play over a local area network (LAN) or via modem connection. Warcraft 2 also introduced the concept of "Battle.net," a dedicated online gaming service that allowed players to easily connect and play against each other.

Expansion Packs

Both Warcraft 2 and Warcraft: Orcs and Humans received expansion packs that added new content and features to the base game. Warcraft 2 received an expansion pack called "Beyond the Dark Portal," which introduced new campaigns, units, and buildings. The expansion pack also continued the story of Warcraft 2, with players facing off against the demonic Burning Legion. In contrast, Warcraft: Orcs and Humans received an expansion pack called "Warcraft: Orcs and Humans - Mission Pack," which added new missions and challenges for players to complete.

Legacy

Both Warcraft 2 and Warcraft: Orcs and Humans have left a lasting legacy in the gaming industry. Warcraft: Orcs and Humans is credited with popularizing the real-time strategy genre and laying the foundation for future games in the Warcraft series. Warcraft 2 built upon the success of the original game, introducing new features and improvements that helped solidify its place as a classic in the genre. Both games have a dedicated fan base that continues to play and enjoy them to this day, showcasing their enduring appeal and influence in the gaming world.