Split of the Game Client into SD and HD Versions

As part of testing of the 9.8 update, players will be able to choose between the two types of the game client: Standard (SD) Client and HD Client (beta).

Standard (SD) Client—new version of the World of Tanks game client. It requires less hard drive space because it does not contain maximum resolution textures for vehicle models. Standard (SD) version of the client takes less time to update and allows starting the game earlier.

HD Client (beta)—World of Tanks game client that contains textures for game objects in all resolutions, including the maximum-quality resolution. The game content is fully identical to that in the Standard (SD) Client. This version of the game client requires a 64-bit operating system.

Not all World of Tanks players use maximum graphics settings. Thus, it was decided to enable players to select the version of the game client that suits them best.

Standard (SD) Client is perfect for players who do not set texture quality to maximum. This new version of the World of Tanks client saves time and disk space for such users—now there is no need for them to download the game content that they do not use.

The differences between the two versions of the game client are limited to disk space required to install the game and the number of available texture quality settings.

Texture quality settings available in 9.8	Standard (SD) Client	HD Client (beta)
Low
Medium
High
Maximum

Game content in both versions of the client is identical. For example, vehicles remodeled in high quality will be available both in Standard (SD) Client and HD Client (beta).

At the same time, HD Client will enable players to fully enjoy maximum-quality graphics and level of detail on the textures of vehicles reworked in HD quality. Maximum texture quality portrays fighting vehicles in all their armored glory: metal pattern, marks of combat and operation will be represented in highest detail. This level of visual goodness will be available to those who install HD Client (beta). If you used to play at maximum graphics settings, then HD Client is the univocal choice for you.

Selecting the Client Type during Installation:

When installing the test version of the 9.8 update, players will be prompted to select the game client to install.

Note: Only players running a 64-bit operating system can install the HD Client (beta). If you have a 32-bit operating system, you will be unable to choose the HD Client (beta).

Selection of the game client type is not irrevocable and can be changed at any time. To change the game client type, run the game launcher and select the desired version of the client. Once you confirm your choice, the launcher will either start downloading the required files (when switching from Standard (SD) Client to HD Client) or change the game client to the SD-version (when switching from HD Client to Standard (SD) Client) without downloading any additional files. In the latter case, the game client size will decrease.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Question: Will the two versions of the client require separate game modifications?

Answer: This change should not affect third-party game modifications. At the same time, it should be reminded that we do not guarantee smooth operation of a modified game client.

2. Question: Will the game client type have to be selected at every update?

Answer: The launcher will download updates for the installed game client type. At the same time, players will be able to change the client type even after installation.

3. Question: How much will the size of the installed game client decrease, if the Standard (SD) Client is selected?

Answer: The installed game client will drop in size by approximately 6 GB. The downloaded client version will decrease by 3 GB.

4. Question: Why is there “beta” in the name of HD Client?

Answer: Currently HD Client is called beta as HD-content of the game is still under the process of development and is constantly increasing.