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Blizzard and Activision’s game launcher, Battle.net, hasn’t won any “Stylish and Fun to Sail” awards over the years. Blizzard has started rolling out an update that could change that, as it will turn the aging client into a tidier Battle.net 2.0.
Announced on the Blizzard site, Battle.net 2.0 isn’t far removed from its predecessor, but I’m definitely a fan of how games are displayed in a row at the top as opposed to a long list that runs down the left side. . Plus, the new library view is gorgeous, with its ability to filter games. I’m really excited for these filter folks.
It also makes better use of space in general. Select a game in the old client and you’ll get tiny information boxes surrounded by an expanse of nothingness. It’s nice to see that the gaps have now been filled with great information and colorful pictures.
One of the most annoying things about the old launcher was its separation from the social panel, which meant you had to switch between windows to see what your friends were up to. Now all of this is perfectly integrated on the right side. Well done from me.
Blizzard has also improved accessibility, which means you can navigate most apps with your keyboard. Support for the screen reader has also been added.
Here’s a quick comparison between the two:
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The old Battle.net launcher
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And the home page of the new launcher
Looking at them both side by side, the old client really looks old fashioned, doesn’t he? I can’t get over this unused space, gah.
The new patch will be rolled out in North America first and will arrive in other regions in the coming weeks.