Blizzcon 2019 has seen a host of new announcements and really exciting ones at that. The most worthy and anticipated highlight, that the fans of the Diablo series have been asking for, is Diablo IV which was officially announced at the convention this year. So what do we know so far?
One thing is for sure, Blizzard always knows how to make the best trailers in the business. The first cinematic trailer for Diablo IV was unveiled and I have to say, being a long time fan of the series, I got goosebumps!!! We see the return of Lilith, the daughter of Mephisto and the build up to this moment is rather epic to say the least, revealing a taste of what the story is going to offer us.
Furthermore, it will feature an open world map with five regions, day/night cycles and a non-linear campaign. You'll smash and loot your way through this world with one of five customizable classes, three of which being the Druid, Barbarian and Sorceress. It was said during the reveal that Diablo 2 fans will be very happy with what Blizzard is introducing game play wise, but nothing really more was elaborated on this topic really. We have gotten an official introduction to some game play which looks absolutely amazing and everyone who was attending Blizzcon 2019 would have the opportunity of giving it a try in their Demo area.
Lead designer, Joe Shely, commented "There's a large, seamless, connected, and shared space in the world, going down into dungeons, being able to group with your friends, trading and PvP. We feel that the best way to experience that is in a world that is online," This new mechanic coming to Diablo IV of a shared open world experience seems like it would bring new and fresh elements to the game play. Furthermore, Diablo 4 will feature world events, towns that act as social hubs and PvP zones.
Finally, it's being designed in a brand-new engine for PS4, Xbox One and PC, with plans to simultaneously release on all platforms mentioned. This is all we know for now as Blizzard also said that Diablo 4's release is a long ways off, "We are not coming out soon. Not even 'Blizzard soon'," said director Luis Barriga.There is also no further information regarding which editions of the game will be available, but I would imagine there would be a standard edition and collectors edition of the game following Blizzard's normal traditions.