by JR Cook - 10 years ago     show comments

Chen is the newest Hero released to Heroes of the Storm and Blizzard wasted no time in getting us an interview with the developers to get a behind the scenes look at what they looked into while designing this new (and unique) hero!

We’re highlighting the question about the new resource type, Chen’s Brew which you can read below.

Trikslyr: Chen’s arrival brings a new type of resource into the mix, Chen’s Brew, which ties directly into his trait. The trait allows Chen to replenish Brew by standing still and taking a drink from his keg. What was the design team trying to accomplish with such a demanding trait?

John: Like all our Heroes, Chen’s design was a combination of chasing a specific fantasy “feel” and trying to explore new mechanical space. The fantasy behind Chen’s trait was heavily inspired by Jackie Chan in Drunken Master, where Chan’s character plays a scrappy martial arts student whose goofy fighting style is fueled by strong drink in the middle of a fight.

From there, we brainstormed about the mechanics: what can we do with Chen’s affinity for brew? How would it feel to “take a break” in the middle of combat? Can we make a rhythm out of that, sort of like a rotation in WoW? What would it be like for players to be in full control of their resource bars?

Fortifying Brew is the pivot that the rest of Chen’s “kit” revolves around. Chen’s Brew replaces Mana; Brew doesn’t regenerate normally and it comes from a much smaller pool, but Chen can recharge himself by drinking from his keg. Chen also shields himself while drinking, which really helps him tank through fights and come out stronger than ever. Players who learn to harness Fortifying Brew as both a defensive tool and fuel for his offensive abilities will be well on their way to mastering Chen – it’s a matter of timing and discretion, a task fit for a wizened Brewmaster.

Make sure to check out the rest of the post over at Blizzard’s page!