WarCraft 1 is reeeaaaly outdated, WarCraft 2 BattleNet edition is a great game, with StarCraft controls so it doesn't feel too old.

But you don't need to play them to enjoy part 3. There are some heroes in 3 that also played in 2 but that's all. :)

heh, i got 2 but there are a few things i didn't like in it but were waay improved in 3 like how peons cost 100 gold :( but i would like to see some ships in the WC3 expansion! but then again wit a 90 unit cap, i'm thinking they would prolly only be used in maps wit little space and all water.