Shoutbox

The forums are very clearly labelled, it's not hard to find the right place.

Furthermore, the colours in WLM 2009 are barely any different from 8.5....it's just the human propensity for disliking change which is seen with every new Messenger release.  The interface is not "ugly and unappealing", it's hardly changed from 8.5....and you'll soon get used to the minor changes.

Microsoft does nothing to prevent you downgrading, proving the older version still enables you to connect to the Messenger network.

If you don't trust Microsoft to give you 8.5 then it can be downloaded from here:

http://www.filehippo.com/download_msn_messenger/3410/

However i would fully recommend persisting with WLM 2009, as Microsoft is already recommending upgrades.  Also, not only can the colours be changed very simply if you desire a darker interfact, there are several Messenger Plus! Live skins out there which offer altered themes.

Sidenote: Joshua, PLEASE stop telling people to use ZapMessenger for uninstalling WLM 2009.  a) ZapMessenger should only be used if the normal uninstaller fails and b) we should be encouraging people to use 2009 as they will soon have no option and 99% of them have no other reason than just disliking change......it was only a few years ago that everyone was complainging about being forced to upgrade to 8.5.....and just look at the uproar that Facebook's interface changes has caused.....when it's nothing more than people disliking change