Before we fix it, we need to understand it. When you launch StarCraft 2, your computer does not immediately load the entire game into RAM. Instead, it follows a specific handshake protocol:
When this process hangs, it usually means the logical link between your ISP, your router, your antivirus, or your hard drive has been broken. The keyword "preparing game data link" generally refers to the network socket or file stream that allows the game to transition from the menu to the engine. starcraft 2 preparing game data link
| Linkage Type | Example | |--------------|---------| | Time → Event | At 120.3 sec, Probe #42 builds Pylon at (x,y) | | Player → Action | Player (Terran) produces Marine at 45.2 sec | | Unit → Parent | Zealot #3 belongs to Protoss Player A | | Map → Location | Nexus placed at resource location index 2 | | Game → Metadata | Patch 5.0.11, map "Deathaura LE", MMR 3200 | Before we fix it, we need to understand it
Do not reinstall Windows. Do not reinstall the game yet. Try these solutions in order. When this process hangs, it usually means the