True to our word we're changing up how we're reporting news for SC2. Frankly, I know that neither you nor I have the time or ability to keep up with the changes that filter through Battle.net and the grapevine regarding SC2. So we're going to compress these updates (the ones that are confirmed and valid, that is) into weekly posts. And it seems this week we've already filled up the quota for a new post.

First we start with some interesting Twitter posts from the @StarCraft account. Apparently the dev team is currently balancing Stimpack (ahh, that's the stuff), has released a new model of the Infested Terran (finally, the old one looked like week-old bran cereal), and the addition of Matt Horner's official bio to StarCraft2.com (what's up with the eu.starcraft2.com link? Everything gets posted in Europe first...). Blizzard also linked a fan-created map layout. Awesome. I love the new graphics! Cutting edge.

Next we move on to a new Disruptor--oh, excuse me, the Nullifier--oh, wait, the Sentry. That's it! Finally got it. Now on it's third name change, the unit has gotten some tweaks. Personally, I was a fan of the original design. But hey, what unit wouldn't benefit from a giant globe on its back, right?

And last (and probably least) we have the December Vespene Laughs winners!

So that about sums up this week. However, I do want to point out one tidbit. Not that my opinions mean anything. But the fact that updates have started up again on time (last year we didn't see much news until March) means that Blizzard is a bit more on schedule this season. That raises my hopes somewhat. Don't forget that there's a Blizzard conference call on February 10th. I'm sure I'll be fielding ton of calls from disappointed fans--errr I mean shareholders--afterwards. Have a great weekend!

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There's been a lot of proverbial dirt flying around the StarCraft fansite arena this week. First there was a rumor tossed around by ThisIsGame.com (a Korean site) claiming the upcoming investor meeting would announce the StarCraft 2 beta. Then an unnamed fansite *cough* TheWarCenter.net *cough* leaked an entire e-mail from Blizzard. It all came to a head earlier this week and then one of our members brought our attention to a tidbit he and his friends gleaned from a blue post.

According to Bashiok Blizzard had a visit from internet personality and self-proclaimed "best gamer ever" Jace Hall. Bashiok said the visit was "recent" which means (through elementary detective work, Watson, since Blizzard takes almost all over December off) that it must have occurred sometime in January. In any case, Mr. Hall has published a preview of the third season of his show on YouTube. Where it gets real interesting is an almost invisible clip at 2:16 where a meeting of Blizzard employees including Chris Sigaty and Dustin Browder are having some beers celebrating something. What would they be celebrating? Well the giant projection of a StarCraft 2 menu stating "Welcome to the StarCraft 2 Beta" might just be an oopsie. Oopsie!

 Not to downplay all this but, frankly, it all means nothing. That being said, we thought it was something everyone should be aware of just in case February 10th turns out to be D-day. Wouldn't want anyone to be surprised now. So take a look, come up with your own theories, and then blame it on the government, or the aliens, or whatever you need to. We'll continue to sift for the truth.

By the way, Bashiok, I'm loving your hilarity at 1:02. Wave off the camera, buddy. Next time might want a sheet over the board when you've got a rogue on campus! "Are you filming our design board?!" Classic. Also, if you're a Diablo III fan you might want to check out 0:58 when he actually records the design board. It means nothing to me, but it might make someone's day!

Sources: Battle.net