Unlike the original StarCraft, Blizzard is reviewing player-made maps for StarCraft II, deleting those they deem inappropriate. When players in the forums ask why, Blizzard responds, "Because we can."


The deletion of the custom StarCraft II map "Ultimate Tank Defence" from Battle.net due to inappropriate content prompted the map's author to question Blizzard's actions in the official forums. After pages of the original poster and other players trying to determine what was inappropriate about the map that led to its deletion and the suspension of his publishing rights, the creator finally came to the conclusion that enemy units appearing at a certain time may have created an offensive image on the game's mini-map.

Meanwhile, Blizzard community manager Lylirra chimed in with an overview of the rules.

While players are encouraged to share the maps they create through Battle.net, published maps are subject to review to ensure that they promote a fun and safe environment for all players. You can learn more about the StarCraft II content policy here: http://us.blizzard.com/support/articl… If a map is found to contain inappropriate content, it will be removed from Battle.net and the map maker will be contacted via email. Should a player have any questions or concerns regarding a specific action, he or she is welcome to contact our support representatives by using the following web form: http://us.blizzard.com/support/webfor…



If you see a player-made map that contains inappropriate content, simply right click on the map image thumbnail under "Details" and then select the "Report this Content" option.


The response prompted one player to question why the policy was in place for the second game and not the first, where some of the custom map names were extremely colorful. Community manager Bashiok gave the player the following answer.

Because we can. Literally. We have a support department now of size and ability to enforce these types of things. It simply wasn't possible when our in-game support used to consist of approximately 20 technical support agents. We did, however, actually police Warcraft III maps to a small degree if they were reported. But it was a rather archaic process.

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Seems pretty cut and dried to me. Bashiok also responded to the questioner's use of the Benjamin Franklin quote "Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one," to describe the situation.

Keeping people from seeing your hate speech and obscene images on our private game service is not the same as relinquishing your constitutional freedoms in the hopes of increased personal/familial security. Ben would tie you to a kite and let go of the string for making such comparisons.


Nicely put, sir.

Map Deleted off B.Net, No Real Reason Given [StarCraft II Forums via VG247]