As we continue our deep-dive testing of the ongoing multiplayer beta, Blizzard has deployed StarCraft II Beta -- Patch 12 (version 0.14.0.15343). This update introduces critical balance adjustments that fundamentally alter early-game Zerg builds and Terran pathfinding mechanics.
You can access and install the update directly: Get the latest SC2 patch download from here.
Balance Changes & Gameplay Impact
PROTOSS
- Forge
- Build time increased from 35 to 45 seconds.
Our Take: This 10-second delay significantly impacts early-game defensive setups, making fast photon cannon rushes or quick defensive transitions against early aggression much tighter to execute. - Life and shield values decreased from 550/550 to 400/400.
Our Take: With reduced durability, Forges are now highly vulnerable to early-game zealot or zergling run-bys when used as part of a wall-in.
- Build time increased from 35 to 45 seconds.
- Mothership
- Vortex now removes Force Fields within its area of effect.
Our Take: A crucial mechanical fix. This prevents players from layering impassable terrain inside a Vortex to completely trap emerging opposing units.
- Vortex now removes Force Fields within its area of effect.
TERRAN
- Thor
- Radius decreased from 1.375 to 0.8125.
- Model size reduced to match new radius.
Our Take: In our hands-on matches, this is a massive quality-of-life buff. Thors are now much less prone to getting stuck on ramps, choke points, or behind SCVs during repair cycles.
ZERG
- Roach
- Supply count increased from 1 to 2.
Our Take: This is the most significant meta shift of the patch. Doubling the supply cost of the Roach heavily penalizes the highly popular, low-economy Roach spam strategies, forcing Zerg players to invest heavily in Overlords and tech transitions.
- Supply count increased from 1 to 2.
User Interface
- Several Hotkey changes have been made (German client only).
Bug Fixes
- Fixed a crash which sometimes occurred when quitting the program.