Diablo is Hitting Mobile: Here's What You Need to Know

It was in the late 90s when we were introduced to one of Blizzard’s most epic role-playing games. Diablo is a critically acclaimed video game that eventually expanded into a successful game franchise. It was an absolute game-changer that introduced us all to the “point and click” RPG system that influenced most of the games that we play today. The success of the first Diablo game is not just about its compelling and uniquely enigmatic plot but also due to its well-crafted and well-balanced gameplay. In addition to that, the game is surprisingly addictive and has an impressive replay value. Not to mention the superior graphics and iconic music score that takes you to its signature dark and eerie theme.

After the success of Diablo in 1997, it was quickly followed by Diablo II in the year 2000. Compared to its predecessor, the sequel offers much more improved gameplay and introduced us to better characters and stories. While most sequels are often unsuccessful, Diablo II managed to become more successful than the first game and was cited as one of the greatest games of all time. It even had a remaster version last year (2021). Despite the success, it took Blizzard Entertainment a decade before they release the third installment in 2012. This new game brought an entirely new gameplay design, a PvP combat system, and a drastic visual improvement. The game was followed by two expansion packs in 2014 and 2016 respectively.

Now, after another decade, Diablo fans are all eager for the release of the fourth installment of the franchise. Unfortunately, despite the high anticipation, the release for Diablo IV and Overwatch 2 (another successful game of Blizzard) was delayed due to the “discrimination controversy” and “executive departure” that took place last year. Interestingly, while fans are waiting for the fourth installment, they still have something to celebrate about. The company is releasing the first-ever mobile-exclusive Diablo game this year!

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Entitled Diablo Immortal, this free-to-play game will soon conquer the mobile platform. While there is no actual release date yet, it was announced that the app game will be out in the first half of 2022. Several trailers have been released recently which added more anticipation for this game. Whether Diablo Immortal will give us some nostalgic gaming experience or not is something we should find out soon. The app game will be available for both Android and iOS devices. Interestingly, Android users may now pre-register for a chance to get early access to the game.

In the meantime, here are the things we know about Diablo Immortal so far;

Another Collaboration with NetEase

NetEase has been a long-time partner of Activision Blizzard. They have been responsible for the Chinese versions of Blizzard’s biggest game titles like World of Warcraft, StarCraft, and Overwatch. The giant company is also the same team behind well-acclaimed app games like the Westward Journey series, Marvel Super war, Rules of Survival, and Identity V. The cinematic trailer was already released in 2018 while an updated gameplay trailer was revealed in BlizzCon 2019 showcasing both old and new elements of the game. The expectations for this mobile version are pretty high. They said that the game is designed to deliver both a nostalgic and new Diablo gaming experience.

A New Mobile-Friendly Gameplay

Diablo Immortal will be a free-to-play Massively Multiplayer Online Action Role-Playing game. There is a seemingly interminable number of MMORPGs on mobile today and it is questionable how well Diablo Immortal could weigh in. The game will be fast-paced similar to some of the biggest MMOs today like Black Desert Mobile, Perfect World, and Lineage 2: Revolution. Interestingly, the gameplay for Diablo Immortal will somehow remind you of Diablo III except that it is done and played on a small screen and with an entirely different control system. Nevertheless, the app game will still take you to the same dark atmosphere that the franchise is known for while successfully incorporating new gaming elements suited for the mobile platform. For instance, the combat system, loot, progression, and class system for this game were all toned down for easy access and navigation.

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Unlike most MMOs today, Diablo Immortal will also not feature an “energy system” which definitely gives you all the time to grind! The game will also introduce six-character classes including Barbarian, Wizard, Monk, Necromancer, Demon Hunter, and Crusader. Multiplayer system is also one of the core features of this game including competitive and cooperative PvP systems. There are even some World of Warcraft-inspired dungeon instances where you can party with other players to complete difficult challenges and quests together.

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A New Chapter to Explore

Story-wise, Diablo Immortal is equally compelling. The game is set five years after the events of Diablo II and Diablo III. Players begin their adventure in the town of Wortham which is being threatened by cultists and the undead. Similar to the classic Diablo fashion, the game will introduce us back to Deckard Cain who will guide your character about your important mission. You will be asked to locate and destroy shards of the Worldstone across the world of Sanctuary to prevent a major catastrophe. It will also introduce Skarn, the Herald of Terror as the main antagonist of Diablo Immortal.

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Immersive Maps and Stunning Visuals

The game will take you to some familiar places from the franchise. You will revisit some of the old stomping grounds and kingdoms including Westmarch during their golden age as well as new zones and dungeons to explore. Appearance-wise, Diablo Immortal is an absolute visual delight as it takes you to an immersive 3D world presented in the same isometric graphic style that Diablo is known for. It also features an impressive character design for each class along with a nicely executed new set of abilities.

Device Requirements