The Battle.net desktop app has its own cache directory that stores temporary manifests. Sometimes, this cache becomes corrupt. When that happens, the "Preparing game data" screen will run, finish, then restart immediately in a loop. The launcher is essentially trying to re-download the index every time you launch because it cannot write to its own cache.
"Preparing game data" when I try launching my game : r/starcraft starcraft 2 preparing game data
High-level players and speedrunners have learned to minimize “preparing game data” time: The Battle
: Residual files in the Battle.net cache or the game's configuration folder can trick the launcher into believing the game is perpetually out of date. The launcher is essentially trying to re-download the
In the context of StarCraft II , the "Preparing Game Data" prompt has transitioned from a routine technical step into a notorious point of frustration for the player base. While ostensibly a mechanism for the game to verify files or download minor patches before launch, it is frequently cited as a recurring bug that traps players in agonizingly slow download loops every time they attempt to play. The Core of the Conflict
Ensure the Text and Audio language in the SC2 options menu matches what you selected in the launcher.