Highlights
Rewards in Diablo 4's initial season offer enticing fresh content, yet the exclusive cosmetics included in the battle pass might not justify the time and effort for numerous players.The battle pass's prominent attraction, the Awoken Coldiron armor set, caters solely to Necromancers in Diablo 4, consequently limiting its appeal to alternative classes like Druids, Sorcerers, and Rogues.
The limited appeal and restricted cosmetic options of the battle pass may hinder its long-term success. For a greater chance of success, Diablo 4's second season should consider offering sets that cater to a wider range of classes. With the arrival of Diablo 4's first season, there have been mostly positive outcomes. Despite controversial changes, the new additions have brought a refreshing change to the game. The introduction of the Malignant Hearts has disrupted the meta, while the gameplay remains thrilling and the new mechanics add intrigue. However, the first Diablo 4 battle pass falls short of expectations and lacks in fulfilling player desires.
Diablo 4's Season One Armor Set Is Heavily Limited
The Malignant battle pass of the current season offers a fresh array of cosmetics for players to obtain; however, the included items feel restrictive in terms of their appeal. Despite the eye-catching armor set as the centerpiece, its benefits are limited to only a select few players. Unless players are specifically pursuing a particular aesthetic, the rewards of season one's battle pass may not justify the effort invested. While it may be too late to rectify this situation, it is hoped that Diablo 4's second season will avoid repeating these same shortcomings.
The Season of the Malignant in Diablo 4 introduces a unique form of corruption that swiftly spreads across Sanctuary. This corruption has the ability to infect enemies throughout the world, giving rise to a whole new breed of creatures known as malignant monsters. As a result, players are faced with fresh obstacles to conquer, while also being presented with a myriad of new collectible items. Additionally, a revolutionary Malignant Heart system grants players the opportunity to unlock and harness newfound powers. The battle pass is closely aligned with this prevailing corruption, which unfortunately limits the extent of its cosmetics.
As players progress through the battle pass, they will gradually unlock pieces of the Awoken Coldiron armor set. Upon completion of the pass, they will possess the entire set, which can be equipped on any chosen character. This set is visually striking and possesses a distinctively ominous appearance, reminiscent of a demonic undead soldier, making it most suitable for Diablo 4's Necromancers.
However, its aesthetic appeal is limited to a certain type of character. The Awoken Coldiron set may not be favored by Druid players, as it does not align with their style. Similarly, Sorcerers might find it offputting and Rogues may not consider it stealthy enough. While the set could work for a Barbarian, it would only be suitable if the player desires a necromancer-like aesthetic. Overall, the complete set harmonizes particularly well with Necromancer players, and the majority of the battle pass rewards seem tailored to cater to this deadly class.
The weapons, horse armor, and armor set serve as a representation of the prevailing corruption that is engulfing the world. They may appear peculiar or out of place for classes unrelated to the undead. Though there are some rewards that are compatible with all, the majority are only beneficial to a few. If players do not wish to resemble an undead warrior, there is no incentive for them to explore Diablo 4's inaugural battle pass.
Necromancer players will find great value in acquiring all the offerings of this battle pass. However, it may not be worthwhile for players of other classes. Most classes will have no use for these cosmetics, which diminishes their motivation to invest in it. The limited appeal of the armor set could ultimately hinder the battle pass's success. If Blizzard continues to create Diablo 4 armor sets tailored to a specific aesthetic, the entire battle pass system may suffer.
Diablo 4's second season should feature sets that cater to a wider range of classes, ensuring greater appeal. The battle pass can align with Blizzard's novel mechanic, yet its rewards must be irresistible to all players. This may entail offering multiple iterations of armor sets, but the endeavor should be worthwhile. The more universally enticing the battle pass proves to be, the greater its potential for success.
Diablo 4 is accessible on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.