Streamlining the Loop: The End of Garage Loading

The release of Update 2.1.1 introduces a long-requested quality of life feature: the Battle! button located directly on the post-match results screen. For years: players had to return to the garage after every match: wait for the assets to load: and then click start. This new addition allows you to skip the garage entirely and enter the matchmaking queue for the next game using the same vehicle.

The mechanic is straightforward. Once a battle ends: the “Personal Score” tab now features a prominent orange button in the bottom right corner. Clicking it initiates the matchmaking process immediately. If your tank is still “locked” in an ongoing battle: the button remains disabled until the vehicle returns to your roster. This change aims to reduce downtime and keep players in the “flow” of the game during long grinding sessions.

Community Sentiment: Praise for Efficiency and UI Gripes

The reaction on Reddit and the official World of Tanks forums has been overwhelmingly positive: though not without specific technical critiques. Most players view this as the best “hidden” feature of the 2.1.1 update. It specifically benefits “grinders” who are working through a single tech tree branch and do not need to change equipment or crew between matches.

However: the community has pointed out several areas for improvement:

  • The Consumable Trap: A common warning on the forums involves manual resupply. If a player does not have “Auto-resupply” checked for ammo or consumables: using this button might send them into the next match with an empty rack.
  • Platoon Limitations: Currently: the button is only available for solo players. Reddit users in the CompetitiveWoT sub are asking for a “Ready Up” version for platoons so the entire group can skip the garage together.
  • Post-Match Analysis: Some critics argue that this feature encourages “blind grinding.” They worry that players will skip looking at their performance statistics or credit earnings in their rush to get into the next fight.

Impact on Server Pacing and Session Length

From an analytical perspective: this feature is a clear move to increase player “session density.” By removing the 10 to 15 seconds spent in the garage between matches: Wargaming is effectively shortening the time between combat encounters. Early data from the Common Test suggests that players using this button can fit in one extra match per hour of gameplay.

This change also pairs well with the new Tier XI economy. Since Tier XI battles are faster and more punishing: the ability to instantly requeue keeps the momentum from dying out after a quick defeat. While it seems like a small UI tweak: it fundamentally alters the “ritual” of the game. You are no longer a commander sitting in a garage: you are a pilot moving from one target to the next without a break.