The hardcore gamers still looting in Diablo II and avoiding Zerg rushes in StarCraft will most likely get a more enjoyable experience online from now on, as Blizzard today announced they have banned 350,000 Battle.net accounts due to the use of third-party hacks. The offenders of justice are facing a 30-day ban from and Blizzard warns that repeated violations will result in a permanent ban. Merciless and effective as it should be, just like in the Middle Ages.

“Cheating ruins the game experience for legitimate players, and we will not tolerate it,” Blizzard said in their statement. “We reserve the right to close the accounts and ban the CD keys of players who are caught cheating on Battle.net.”

My experience with StarCraft says that it’s quite a smooth experience. It has an aura of fair play around it and while there are some low lives ruining for others, it’s nothing compared to the adventures of Diablo II. You can barely compete with others if you’re playing it “bona fide” — there’s always some dude running at the speed of light, casting spells automatically or making your freakin’ connection crash. Kidos to Blizzard for staying loyal to their remaining honest Battle.net users.