This week we depart from the Zerg to take a look at the history of one of the most renowned heroes in the Starcraft universe – the Dark Templar Zeratul.

Once again, Blizzard has declined to release any particularly new information, instead reiterating the storyline from the general point of view of one of the characters. While interesting, the effect is somewhat dulled by the fact that this is the fifth update in which Blizzard has done this and it would be nice to see something new.

What is interesting to note, however, is that unlike in the first game Zeratul may be a unique unit instead of a stronger Dark Templar. In the concept art and in-game, the Dark Templar are depicted much differently from their original appearance. They have a sort of rocky appearance, no mask, and wield a double-bladed energy scythe. However, the picture for the Protoss on the main features page depicts a Dark Templar that appears much as the originals did, lightly armored and wielding a blade of energy that extends from his right arm.

With the concept art shown in the most recent update, is confirmation that this Protoss is indeed Zeratul, meaning he may retain the original Dark Templar design in the second game. Whether or not this will have any mechanical effect on how he plays has yet to be seen.

As stressed in several other updates, Zeratul looks to be one of the major movers in Starcraft II. It is likely that we will see him returning to uncover the mystery of the Zerg/Protoss hybrids he discovered in the secret mission of the first game, although where his role will take him beyond that remains to be seen.