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Lead Live Class Designer Adam Jackson discussed potential new classes for Diablo 4, following rumors of the Spiritborn class being added in the Vessel of Hatred expansion.
Jackson reassures fans that Diablo 4 allows for any class archetype, including the possibility of including the Blood Knight from Diablo Immortal. The game developers strive to create fresh and distinct archetypes that seamlessly blend into the game's immersive world, pushing the boundaries of the ARPG genre.
Diablo 4 has various possibilities for class design, as Lead Live Class Designer Adam Jackson recently discussed what players can anticipate for the future of the game. During the opening ceremony at BlizzCon 2023, along with the Diablo panel, fans were given a glimpse into the long-term plans for Diablo 4. However, it seemed that Blizzard was not yet prepared to disclose information regarding the next expansion or Season 3. While details about the new class in Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred are still unknown, there have been leaks suggesting that it may be the Spiritborn, a glaive-wielding class that complements the Druids and represents the Nature element. Despite some fans hoping for the inclusion of Paladins or Crusaders as a knight archetype in Diablo 4, Adam Jackson shared some reassuring words.
Any Class Archetype Is In Play for Diablo 4, Even Immortal's Blood Knight
During a group interview at BlizzCon 2023, Jackson provided insights into his team's approach to class balance in a live-service title. He emphasized the importance of constantly evaluating the effectiveness of different skills and their potential for improvement or redesign. The goal was to avoid creating a restrictive environment where classes become indistinguishable from one another. When asked about the possibility of introducing new classes in Diablo 4, Jackson expressed his personal opinion: "While I can't make any promises regarding future developments, I don't foresee any significant obstacles to incorporating new additions such as the Blood Knight, or any other exciting concepts from Diablo Immortal or other games, into Diablo 4."
According to Jackson, the team prioritized creating archetypes that seamlessly integrated into the world and storyline of Diablo 4, rather than simply reintroducing classes from the previous games. This approach offered developers a chance to innovate. "We must consider when it's appropriate to introduce desired elements and when it's time to break conventions in the ARPG genre and propel it forward with fresh ideas. Our game must excel in both aspects."
"I don't foresee any obstacles in incorporating elements such as the Blood Knight or any new features from Diablo Immortal or other games into Diablo 4." - Adam Jackson
As part of the game's support after its release, players can expect at least two expansions for Diablo 4. With Vessel of Hatred scheduled to launch in late 2024, it appears that the developers are aiming to release expansions every 18 months. While it is highly likely that Spiritborn will be included in the Kurast setting of Vessel of Hatred, the inclusion of Blood Knights and Crusaders would be a straightforward success for Blizzard once the storyline progresses beyond the Twin Seas.
Diablo 4
Franchise DiabloPlatform(s) PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series SReleased June 6, 2023Developer(s) BlizzardGenre(s) Action RPG, Hack and Slash
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I am excited about the potential for new classes in Diablo 4. The Blood Knight from Diablo Immortal is a popular choice among fans, and I would love to see it make its way into the game. I think it would be a great addition to the roster, and it would be interesting to see how it would fit into the world of Diablo 4.
I also appreciate that the developers are open to exploring new class archetypes. Diablo 4 has the potential to be a truly groundbreaking game, and I think that introducing new and innovative classes would help to set it apart from its predecessors. I am confident that the developers will create something special, and I can't wait to see what they have in store for us.