Diablo 4 has finally been released, but the feedback has been a bit mixed. While it has achieved success in certain areas, there are many aspects of the game that have left fans unsatisfied. Expectations for the Diablo series have risen, and fans aren't hesitant about expressing their disappointment.
One popular way fans express their discontent is through a plethora of memes. These online jokes harshly critique the shortcomings of Diablo 4, while also connecting to popular topics in pop culture. The humor comes from various sources and may not always be the most sophisticated, but sometimes the simplest jokes elicit the biggest laughs.
6 Looking Back
Many fans of Diablo long for the earlier installments, especially older players and dedicated role-players. The systems in Diablo 2 were notably more intricate and challenging, creating a superior gaming experience. Additionally, Diablo 2 predates the era of microtransactions and other unfavorable practices adopted by Blizzard. Diablo 4 unfortunately falls victim to several of these negative aspects.
As a result, dissatisfied fans can easily relate to this meme. Despite the allure of the new Diablo game, gamers often find themselves returning to the tried and tested product. This pattern is common when long-standing franchises release a disappointing or below-average sequel. To refresh their gaming experience, fans seek solace in the familiar. Of course, the comparisons to Diablo 2 don't end there.
5 Before & After
Fans of the Witcher series have also made comparisons to Diablo 2 with regards to Yennefer of Vengerberg, particularly her portrayal in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. This is then contrasted with the Resurrected edition of Diablo 2, which boasts improved graphics, new monsters, DLC, and other enticing features to be considered the ultimate version. The accompanying meme effectively showcases this by highlighting the enhanced depth and exceptional performance of the TV version of Yennefer, which in some aspects, surpasses the original vision. However, the positivity ends here.
The meme then shifts focus to Diablo 4 and its updates, which have faced criticism from players due to the nerfing of key gameplay elements. This negative trend is represented by a distorted depiction of Yennefer, complete with a hunched back, crooked jaw, and soiled clothes that reflect her appearance at the beginning of the story. This is fitting as the patches feel like a regression, prompting fans to take pleasure in exposing these shortcomings.
4 Lilith for President
Lilith's popularity in marketing inevitably led to fans creating a humorous spin on it. The usual approach involves replacing the promotional character with a notorious real-life figure, in this case, Hillary Clinton. Considering her reputation for being corrupt and dangerous, even amongst politicians, it's not surprising that she was chosen. Many already associate her with deceitful behavior. However, the meme could have substituted her with anyone and still achieved the desired effect.
Politicians are well-known for their self-serving dishonesty and hidden secrets. Comparing them to the devilish characters in Diablo is an obvious but fitting choice. In fact, audiences may find it easier to relate to Lilith than to any elected official. After all, she may have a rotten soul, but at least she has one. Political humor may be polarizing, but it can also result in some of the most amusing jokes.
3 Coincidence, Barbie?
Another meme pokes fun at Lilith's marketing by drawing a timely comparison. One of their advertisements showcases a close-up shot of Lilith's foot, provocatively arched as if she's wearing high heels. Under normal circumstances, this wouldn't garner much attention beyond the foot fetish community. However, the resemblance to another advertisement is uncanny. The teaser for the upcoming Barbie movie also features a shot of the doll's foot, positioned and angled almost identically. This has led fans to draw a connection between the two, which is both absurd and amusing.
The stark contrast in tones between Lilith and Barbie makes this connection all the more humorous. Despite their divergent themes, it's comical to imagine these works clandestinely sharing the same realm. While the notion may seem far-fetched, it's worth noting that Barbie is poised to initiate a franchise of movies under the Mattel brand, which some viewers might perceive as sinister. Considering the political controversy surrounding the Barbie movie since its release, it's not entirely implausible to speculate that Barbie has ties to the underworld. Of course, it's likely just a coincidental occurrence, but that won't deter the internet from engaging in speculation.
2 Look At How They Massacred My Boy!
The previously mentioned nerfs sparked a wave of animosity, resulting in numerous memes. Out of all the classes, the Sorcerer suffered the most from these adjustments. In their attempt to balance the game, the developers transformed what was arguably the top class into the worst.
This downfall is truly tragic for anyone involved. Countless players likely relied on the Sorcerer as their primary class and invested countless hours into developing their character, firmly believing they could conquer any challenge. However, Blizzard unexpectedly pulled the rug out from under them. All of their hard work and dedication instantly becomes worthless. The situation feels like a cruel joke. Ultimately, players mourn the current state of the class, much like the Godfather mourns the loss of his son. While it may not involve bullets, the pain is just as real. At least this debacle manages to elicit a few ironic laughs.
1 What Year Is It?
Despite its flaws, Diablo 4 can still be incredibly time-consuming. The game is filled with optional dungeons and tasks to keep players occupied. Some players may even enjoy the nostalgic grind of achieving the coveted level cap.
However, reaching this cap is no easy feat in any game and requires immense dedication and focus. Players who embark on this endeavor are clearly passionate, but their dedication may cause them to lose track of time. While they will definitely feel like they got their money's worth, they may also find themselves feeling disoriented, much like Robin Williams emerging from Jumanji. It's a strange sensation, but one that is both enlightening and amusing in hindsight.
Diablo 4 is currently available for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.