Blizzard Entertainment today launched the Reign of the Warlock downloadable content for Diablo II: Resurrected, introducing the game’s first new playable class in 25 years. The Warlock, a demon-summoning character, is available now for on PC, PlayStation, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch, and also marks the game’s debut on Steam.
The addition of the Warlock represents a significant expansion to Diablo II: Resurrected, a 2021 remaster of the seminal action role-playing game. While the remaster aimed for faithful recreation of the original experience, the introduction of a completely new class demonstrates Blizzard’s commitment to extending the life of the title and appealing to both veteran players and newcomers.
The Warlock distinguishes itself through its mastery of demonic binding, allowing players to enslave and command a variety of demons in battle. Currently, the Warlock can summon Goatmen, Tainted Defilers, and other demonic entities, each possessing unique abilities and strengths. Players can enhance these summoned allies through specialized skills, and even consume them to absorb their life force, granting temporary buffs and augmenting the Warlock’s own capabilities. This mechanic introduces a strategic layer to combat, forcing players to weigh the benefits of a powerful ally against the potential for a temporary power boost.
Beyond the Warlock class itself, the Reign of the Warlock DLC introduces new content for endgame players. Enhanced Terror Zones offer increased opportunities to acquire consumables, and players can now choose which Acts are affected by these zones. The update also introduces Colossal Ancients, described as “the next evolution of endgame battles,” presenting a formidable challenge for even the most seasoned Diablo II veterans. These encounters require players to unveil mystical statues to unlock the boss, adding a layer of exploration and puzzle-solving to the traditional dungeon-crawling experience.
The release of the Warlock isn’t limited to Diablo II: Resurrected. Blizzard is also bringing the class to Diablo IV as part of the upcoming Lord of Hatred expansion, slated for release in April, and to the free-to-play mobile title Diablo Immortal later this summer. This cross-platform availability underscores Blizzard’s intention to make the Warlock a central part of the Diablo franchise’s 30th-anniversary celebration.
The addition of the Warlock to Diablo II: Resurrected is particularly noteworthy given the game’s long-standing status within the ARPG genre. For many players, Diablo II represents a high point in game design, and the decision to add a new class after so many years is a testament to the game’s enduring popularity and the dedication of its fanbase. The Warlock’s skillset, focused on demon binding and manipulation, offers a distinct playstyle that differentiates it from the game’s existing classes, potentially attracting players who previously found the game lacking in certain strategic options.
The Reign of the Warlock DLC is available as a standalone purchase, but Blizzard also offers an Infernal Edition of Diablo II: Resurrected for , which includes the new content for those who do not already own the base game. This provides a convenient entry point for new players looking to experience the classic Diablo II gameplay with the added bonus of the Warlock class and other enhancements.
This launch is part of a broader wave of updates from Blizzard commemorating its 35th anniversary. Yesterday, the company unveiled significant changes to Overwatch, including a name change (dropping the “2”) and the addition of five new heroes. These updates demonstrate Blizzard’s ongoing commitment to supporting its existing franchises while also exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation.
