Diablo 4is going to offer unprecedented character and skill tree customization, according to a recent interview with Blizzard’s Game Director Joe Shely and General Manager Rod Fergusson. Customization and class identity have always been crucial in aDiablogame, and whileDiablo 3ended up taking its own progression systems quite far after substantial content updates, its sequel aims to run circles around it.
Though Blizzard is yet to announce a firm release date forDiablo 4at this time, the game already has an established 2023 launch window, and the rumor has it that it may launch sometime in April. With more concrete information on its release pending,Diablo 4’s developers are still eager to share tidbits about its gameplay, and they’ve done so in a recent interview with IGN.
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AsDiablo 4’s endgame beta leakssuggested, the game will feature an immense level of variety and customization. According to Shely and Fergusson, players can expect a comprehensive skill tree system that will go so far as to allow them to use the new keyword search functionality to filter skills and abilities that fit their specific build. Both skills and passives will be available, and the system is highly reminiscent of complex ARPGs such asGrim DawnorPath of Exile, further underlining Blizzard’s dedication to makingDiablo 4as interesting and engaging as it possibly could be for a build-crafting player. Specifically, whereasDiablo 3’s builds were gear-dependent,Diablo 4will be closer toDiablo 2’s far more important skill trees instead.
At the same time,Diablo 4’s skill progression will be far less linear than it was inDiablo 2, said Shely and Fergusson. They also noted that re-speccing would be more easily accessible than ever before, but the higher the character’s level, the higher the cost of the feature. Experimentation is encouraged at lower levels, and Blizzard hopes that this approach might make players more attached to their characters in the long run. This also suggests thatDiablo 4’s seasonal contentmight have its own alternative progression modes that won’t outright reset the players' favorite builds and characters.
Diablo 4has had a number of leaksas of late, many of which suggest that Blizzard is on the right track when it comes to the game’s longevity and hardcore player appeal. Beta testers also appear to have had mostly positive experiences with the testing builds of the game, which is a great sign for fans of Blizzard’s flagship franchise.
While nothing’s been said about theHoradric Cube inDiablo 4, it’s entirely possible that this item will return in some capacity as well. Statements from Blizzard’s developers suggest that the studio is mainly looking back atDiablo 2to see what worked and what did not, and the legendary transmutation artifact has certainly made a mark on players over the years.
Diablo 4will launch in 2023 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
