What Video Game is Warcraft Based On? Unraveling the Origins of Azeroth
The question of what video game Warcraft is based on is a surprisingly common one, often leading to confusion and misconceptions. The short answer is: Warcraft is not directly based on any pre-existing video game. Instead, it originated as a unique concept, though heavily influenced by various sources including tabletop games and other media, before finding its own distinct identity. Its foundation is the 1994 game Warcraft: Orcs & Humans, a real-time strategy (RTS) game that marked the beginning of the Warcraft universe as we know it. While the concept initially stemmed from a pitch to license a Warhammer game, this fell through and thus, the Warcraft universe was born, independent of another video game property.
The Genesis of Warcraft: Not a Direct Adaptation
While it’s true that Warcraft draws heavily on established fantasy tropes, much like Dungeons and Dragons, The Lord of the Rings, and even Warhammer, it wasn’t a direct adaptation of any one of them. The original concept for Warcraft emerged from a desire by Blizzard to explore a world of clashing factions, driven by a mixture of real-time strategy and fantasy narrative. Initially, Blizzard’s vision was to create a Warhammer game, which they presented to Games Workshop as a proof of concept. However, this deal didn’t materialize, and thus Warcraft was born.
Influences and Inspirations
Despite not being a direct adaptation, it’s essential to understand the multitude of influences that shaped Warcraft. Some of the significant inspirations include:
- The Lost Vikings and Lemmings: As Blizzard developer Bob Fitch stated, the initial idea involved combining the Viking theme from The Lost Vikings with masses of creatures, akin to Lemmings, but under the player’s automated control. This formed the basis of the real-time strategy element.
- Warhammer: While the partnership with Games Workshop didn’t go ahead, the initial concept was deeply rooted in the Warhammer universe. Many of the classic fantasy elements present in Warhammer can be seen, in modified form, within Warcraft.
- Dungeons and Dragons: Azeroth, the world of Warcraft, takes heavy inspiration from the tabletop roleplaying game Dungeons and Dragons. There have even been official Warcraft tabletop roleplaying systems compatible with the 3rd edition of D&D, highlighting the franchise’s deep connection to this influential game.
- The Lord of the Rings: The works of J.R.R. Tolkien are an undeniable influence on the fantasy genre. This is no less true for Warcraft. The old lore of Warcraft and Warhammer share some similarities, but each have diverged since the initial inspiration from Lord of the Rings.
Warcraft: Orcs & Humans – The Foundation
The first Warcraft game, Warcraft: Orcs & Humans, released in 1994, cemented the franchise’s identity. It introduced the core conflict between the humans of Azeroth and the invading Orcish Horde. This initial title laid the groundwork for the entire Warcraft lore, including the characters, factions, and conflicts that continue to shape the universe today. The move from being a theoretical game to Warcraft: Orcs & Humans was an independent process where Blizzard created their own universe and lore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify the origins and other aspects of the Warcraft universe, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. Is the Warcraft Movie Based on a Game?
The Warcraft film is primarily based on the story of Warcraft: Orcs & Humans, the original game from 1994. It focuses on the events of the “First War” between the Orcs and Humans, however, the movie is an alternate version of the Warcraft universe.
2. Was Warcraft originally a Warhammer game?
Yes, initially, Warcraft was intended to be a Warhammer game. Blizzard pitched a proof of concept to Games Workshop, but the deal fell through. Blizzard then reworked the lore, creating the universe of Warcraft.
3. Does the Warcraft movie follow the game exactly?
No. The Warcraft film universe is an alternate, separate version of the main Warcraft universe. The movie lore is streamlined to be more accessible to the general public. Character personalities remain the same with minor changes to backstories.
4. Who was the baby at the end of Warcraft?
The baby at the end of the Warcraft movie is Thrall, Durotan’s son and a future warchief of the Horde. He is raised among humans as a gladiator before rising through orcish ranks.
5. Is League of Legends (LoL) based on Warcraft?
League of Legends (LoL) was directly inspired by Defense of the Ancients (DotA), a custom map for Warcraft III. Riot’s founders developed LoL as a stand-alone game in the same genre.
6. Was Warcraft inspired by Dungeons and Dragons?
Yes, Azeroth, the world of Warcraft, takes heavy inspiration from Dungeons and Dragons. Two official Warcraft tabletop roleplaying systems compatible with 3rd Edition D&D have also been created.
7. What is the oldest Warcraft game?
Warcraft: Orcs & Humans (Warcraft I), released in 1994, is the oldest game in the Warcraft series.
8. Why is Warcraft called Warcraft?
The name “Warcraft” was suggested by Blizzard developer Sam Didier. According to Blizzard co-founder Allen Adham, it was chosen simply because “it sounded super cool”, with no specific meaning attached to it.
9. Was Warcraft inspired by The Lord of the Rings (LoTR)?
Indirectly, yes. Both Warcraft and Warhammer (an initial inspiration of Warcraft) are inspired by The Lord of the Rings. While their initial lore has similarities, both franchises have since forged their own unique paths.
10. Will there be a Warcraft 2 movie?
It’s unlikely. While director Duncan Jones had a three-film outline, a sequel doesn’t appear to be in production.
11. Why is World of Warcraft (WoW) so addictive?
World of Warcraft is addictive due to its never-ending content, constant updates, and the social interaction it provides. There’s always something to do, making it difficult to stop playing.
12. Why is Warcraft so good?
Warcraft, and especially World of Warcraft, is lauded for its amazing PvE and raid content. The game constantly updates with challenging content, making players work together to conquer them, and of course offers amazing loot.
13. Did Starcraft rip off Warhammer?
No, Starcraft did not rip off Warhammer 40,000. They both take influence from similar sources, which results in some similarities, but are independent creations.
14. What are World of Warcraft Orcs based on?
The Orcs in Warcraft are loosely based on old hunter-gatherer societies, valuing strength, honor, and a strong attachment to the land and spirits.
15. Is World of Warcraft based on Lovecraft?
No, World of Warcraft is not based on the works of Lovecraft. While it has some lore that’s influenced by Lovecraft, it does not share the same themes. WoW is a power fantasy, whereas Lovecraftian stories are about mortal helplessness.
Conclusion
While it drew inspiration from various sources, Warcraft is not directly based on any specific video game. Its unique identity stems from a combination of real-time strategy elements, fantasy lore, and a desire to create a compelling narrative around the conflict between Orcs and Humans. From its humble beginnings as Warcraft: Orcs & Humans to the global phenomenon that is World of Warcraft, the franchise has built a vast and captivating world all its own. Understanding the genesis of Warcraft allows us to appreciate its creativity and enduring appeal.