Blizzard Entertainment has surprised Diablo II fans with the release of “Reign of the Warlock,” a major expansion for that introduces the game’s first new playable class in over 25 years. The update, timed around the franchise’s 30th anniversary, delivers the Warlock, a character steeped in dark magic and capable of commanding demonic forces.
The Warlock distinguishes itself by its unique ability to summon and control three distinct types of demons – Goatmen, Tainted Defilers – to aid in combat. Beyond simply acting as allies, these demons can be consumed to augment the Warlock’s own abilities, offering a strategic layer to gameplay. The class also blends spellcasting with close-quarters combat, allowing for versatile build options.
According to Blizzard, the Warlock’s equipment “levitates, allowing [them] to equip a two-handed weapon while keeping a second hand free for spellcasting.” This mechanic opens up new tactical possibilities, enabling a hybrid playstyle that combines raw physical power with potent magical attacks.
A Hybrid Class for Strategic Players
The Warlock’s design caters to players who enjoy strategic planning and experimentation. The class features three distinct skill trees: Demonic, Eldritch, and Chaos. The Demonic tree focuses on summoning and controlling demons, while the Eldritch tree allows manipulation of weapons, imbuing them with hexes that inflict status effects on enemies. The Chaos tree emphasizes area-of-effect fire spells and entropy clouds, enabling control over the battlefield.
The Eldritch skill tree, in particular, allows for unique weapon manipulation, including the ability to carry both a two-handed weapon and a single-handed weapon simultaneously. This allows for a wider range of combat options and build customization.
Beyond the Warlock: Quality of Life Improvements and New Content
“Reign of the Warlock” isn’t solely focused on the new class. The expansion also introduces fresh Terror Zones, challenging endgame areas, and fearsome Colossal Ancients to conquer. Crucially, the update addresses long-standing player requests with quality-of-life improvements, including stackable stash tabs and fully customizable loot filters. These changes aim to streamline inventory management and enhance the overall player experience.
The expansion adds over 30 new items, including sets, uniques, runewords, and a new item type called Books, which function as Warlock shields. These additions provide players with new avenues for character customization and build optimization.
Availability and Pricing
“Reign of the Warlock” is now available for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. The expansion is priced at approximately $620 (CZK). Players who do not own can purchase the “Infernal Edition,” which includes the expansion, for around $1000 (CZK). The game is also available through the Game Pass subscription service.
Warlock’s Expansion to Other Diablo Titles
The Warlock class isn’t limited to . Blizzard plans to introduce the Warlock to other current Diablo titles. It will be available in with the release of the “Lord of Hatred” expansion for .
will also receive a new class alongside the Warlock: the Paladin, a heavily armored warrior specializing in close-quarters combat and celestial light-based abilities. Players who pre-order “Lord of Hatred” will gain early access to the Paladin.
the Warlock will be added to the free-to-play later this year, expanding the class’s reach to mobile and PC players.
The Legacy of Diablo
The Diablo franchise began with the release of the original in , quickly gaining popularity for its addictive action RPG gameplay and simple controls. The game spawned a new genre, often referred to as “Diablo-likes,” characterized by isometric camera perspectives and loot-driven progression.
, released in , is widely considered one of the greatest games in history, both by critics and players. The remaster, , brought the classic experience to a new generation.
, released in , introduced 3D graphics and a greater focus on multiplayer gameplay. While commercially successful, it received a more mixed reception than its predecessors.
, released in , has enjoyed a successful launch and a more positive reception from both critics and players. As of recent reports, it has sold over ten million copies, and is projected to become the franchise’s best-selling title.
