Contrary to expectations, Diablo 4 will not launch with a balance patch, meaning that the build from the server slam will roughly be the version of the game at release. Though players are sold on Diablo 4's gameplay, many were left with an impression that a few classes such as Druid and Necromancer needed some adjustments. Given that Diablo 4's open beta and server slam primarily dealt with low-level content in the Fractured Peaks, Blizzard recently reassured players that the classes were balanced for the endgame, noting that the Necromancer, in particular, was a force to be reckoned with.
With Druid being somewhat of an enigma for now as well, many players and streamers alike are likely to go with the Whirlwind Barbarian build in Diablo 4 as it came out of the server slam smelling like roses. The buffs implemented before the Diablo 4 server slam have transformed the lackluster Barbarian skill into the most satisfying iteration of Whirlwind since the days of Diablo 2.
According to Associate Game Director Joseph Piepiora, the balance changes implemented for the server slam represent the general state of Diablo 4's classes at launch. Minion builds for Necromancer in Diablo 4 felt lackluster for many participants in the server slam, and though other archetypes have received glowing praise, Necromancer players will likely need to be patient with their skeletal army.
As Diablo 4's launch rapidly approaches, it is important to keep in mind that even if classes feel unbalanced at launch, Blizzard will be able to draw from a vast pool of continuous feedback. With Season 1 only commencing in mid to late July, the developers will have enough time to implement the right fixes for Diablo 4's competitive mode. Though some have expressed concern that the accelerated Battle Pass in Diablo 4 will offer players an unfair advantage due to its seasonal track including important crafting materials as rewards, Blizzard has assured fans that the more expensive Battle Pass option would only offer a head start on earning cosmetics.
The reviews for the latest Diablo title are largely positive, and the only major complaint players have is directed at the pricey microtransactions in Diablo 4. At its core, Diablo 4 will offer a traditional experience for Diablo fans through its single-player campaign, but it will also be a live service title – complete with premium currency and paid cosmetics, in exchange for a steady stream of new content. Though it remains to be seen how veteran players adjust to the new system, Diablo 4 is expected to launch in a significantly less broken state compared to its predecessor.
Diablo 4 launches June 6 on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, and PS5.