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Blizzard Entertainment has announced the release of beta patch 1.5.0 for its sci-fi RTS sequel, StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty. The update introduces the Arcade, a new custom game tool featuring streamlined search, ratings, instructions, and patch notes for the various custom offerings. The update will also add a new streaming launcher for patches and a variety of editor changes and improvements.

The Patch 1.5.0 Beta introduces an entirely new Battle.net experience: the Arcade. The Arcade offers exciting new ways to find and play your favorite custom games -- and discover new favorites too -- with the option to search for games based on categories including genre, star ratings, release date, and more. After you’ve found a game that you’re interested in, the new Game Info page will provide you with all the information you need to know before you dive in, including a description, screenshots, instructions, patch notes, tutorials, as well as star ratings and reviews provided by your fellow players. The Open Games list will help keep wait times down by displaying games that are waiting for players too.

Patch 1.5.0 also introduces a new streaming launcher that should make download, installation, and patching times shorter than ever before, as well as an incredible array of editor changes and improvements.

When you log into the beta, you’ll find the Arcade has games available to play, because the industrious StarCraft II custom gaming community has already been hard at work crafting, refining, and posting their creations.

SCII: The Patch 1.5.0 Arcade Beta Has Begun

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