Last Thursday, the first official Blizzcast went on air on Blizzard's official site. The podcast ran just under a half hour and included two interviews.
Community Manager Karune interviewed Art Director Sam Didier. He's done work for Starcraft and World of Warcraft. He's responsible for a large body of the art for WoW, including the Pandaren race.
First, Didier discussed how he got into the gaming industry. Holding the illustrious position of movie theater usher, he found an article in the classifieds looking for someone to "Make Art For Video Games." One short interview, and he was in.
In discussing the difference between the two franchises' art styles, Didier mentioned that Warcraft is "hyper-fantasy" and Starcraft has more grit, "a little more dirtier." He also mentions that the Pandaren got their start as the graphic on his family's Christmas card. The two discuss the graphics for Starcraft intensely, including the motivations for the Dark Templars and the new details on Zerglings with wings.
In the closing discussion, Didier includes short advice to artists hoping to get into the industry. Artists should learn how to model and texture 3D models through programs like Max and Maya. All Blizzard artists do this, even concept artists.
CM Drysc interviewed Jeff Kaplan for the second half of this week's Blizzcast. The two discussed the upcoming 2.4 patch, including the Sunwell Plateau experience.
Kaplan said that the raid instance will be after Black Temple in overall planned raid progression and gear. The equipment will be above Tier 6, but won't have any class-specific equipment sets.
The smaller instance for five players will be called Magister's Terrace. It will have the same challenge as current level 70 instances, like Shadow Labyrinth or Shattered Halls. This instance will provide players with gear that may bridge the gap between the hardcore and the casual.
Blizzcast seems to be an experiment for Blizzard. Feedback is encouraged, with prizes for a few people who send in emails. If you want the podcast to have a future, send in an email.
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