Blizzard has revealed – via Battle.net – that Heart of the Swarm, the highly anticipated sequel/expansion to StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty will be released on March 12th, 2013. So there's that to look forward to in the new year.
Beyond that, they've announced and revealed the contents of the Digital Deluxe Version on the game's FAQ page as well, which you can check out below.
Banking on the idea that StarCraft 2 players play other Blizzard titles like Diablo and World of Warcraft, the Digital Deluxe Version offers:
-Three StarCraft II Swarm-themed Battle.net portraits
-StarCraft II Zerg Ultralisk “Torrasque” skin
-World of Warcraft Baneling Battle Pet
-Diablo III “Blade Wings” item – Queen of Blades-styled wings for Diablo III heroes
-Diablo III Zerg banner sigil
A StarCraft 2 pack offering both Heart of the Swarm and Wings of Liberty is also in the works, as well as a Heart of the Swarm Collector's Edition, which, according to a press release, features:
-Behind-the-Scenes DVD and Blu-ray: Immerse yourself in the StarCraft universe with developer commentary, interviews with voice actors, and an in-depth historical retrospective on StarCraft's eSports legacy narrated by key members of the community.
-Collector's Edition Soundtrack CD: Enhance your Heart of the Swarm musical experience with this collection of more than a dozen tracks from the game.
-Heart of the Swarm Hardcover Art Book: This 144-page tome features never-before-seen art from the expansion, including early concept sketches and meticulous 3D renderings.
-Zerg Rush Mousepad: This Collector's Edition mousepad depicts the Terran Dominion holding out desperately under the onslaught of the Swarm.
In the same press release issued by Blizzard, president Mike Morhaime, said:
“With Heart of the Swarm, our goal has been to expand on the multiplayer action and cinematic storytelling of Wings of Liberty. Combined with features like unranked matchmaking and our new leveling system, this expansion elevates the StarCraft II experience for players of all skill levels."
Heart of the Swarm promises to be "the most in-depth look into the zerg that Blizzard has ever carried out."