As a dad who grew up with the classic Diablo 1 and 2, I’m beyond excited for the upcoming release of Diablo 4. If you’re new to the series, you might be wondering what you need to know before playing Diablo 4. In this beginner’s guide, I’ll cover the essential elements of the Diablo series, including its history, gameplay, and key features. So, let’s dive into the dark and mysterious world of Sanctuary and prepare for the epic journey that awaits.
A Brief History of the Diablo Series
The Diablo series, developed by Blizzard Entertainment, has been a staple in the action role-playing game (ARPG) genre since the release of the first game in 1996. Set in the dark, gothic world of Sanctuary, the series follows the eternal conflict between the forces of Heaven and Hell. Here’s a quick overview of the main games in the series:
- Diablo (1996): The original game introduced players to the world of Sanctuary and the dark, twisted dungeons beneath the town of Tristram. Players took on the role of a lone hero battling against the forces of evil, culminating in an epic confrontation with Diablo, the Lord of Terror.
- Diablo II (2000): This sequel expanded the world of Sanctuary, introducing new locations, characters, and gameplay features. Players chose from one of five different classes and embarked on a quest to defeat the Prime Evils: Diablo, Mephisto, and Baal. The game’s expansion, Diablo II: Lord of Destruction, added two new classes and a fifth act to the storyline.
- Diablo III (2012): The third installment in the series brought significant changes to the gameplay, graphics, and storytelling. Players faced a new evil, the fallen angel Malthael, in their quest to save Sanctuary from destruction. Diablo III: Reaper of Souls, the game’s expansion, introduced the Crusader class and a new act to the story.
Before playing Diablo 4, I recommend at least trying out Diablo II and its expansion for an authentic Diablo experience. You can purchase the remastered version, Diablo II: Resurrected, on Blizzard’s official website.
Diablo Lore: The Story So Far
While the main attraction of the Diablo series is its addictive gameplay and loot hunting, the games also boast a rich and engaging story. Understanding the lore can enhance your experience and make you more invested in the world of Sanctuary. Here’s a brief overview of the key events and characters from the previous games:
The Eternal Conflict
The core story of Diablo revolves around the Eternal Conflict, an ongoing war between the forces of Heaven and Hell. Angels and demons have been battling for eons, with the world of Sanctuary caught in the middle. The Nephalem, powerful beings born from the union of angels and demons, are the ancestors of humanity and play a crucial role in the series’ story.
The Prime Evils
The Prime Evils are the most powerful demons in existence, ruling over Hell and seeking to conquer Sanctuary. Diablo, the Lord of Terror, is the main antagonist in the series, with his brothers Mephisto (the Lord of Hatred) and Baal (the Lord of Destruction) also playing significant roles. Players in the previous games have faced and defeated these demonic foes, but their influence continues to loom over the world.
The Worldstone
The Worldstone is a powerful artifact that shapes reality and maintains the balance between Heaven, Hell, and Sanctuary. Throughout the series, the Worldstone has been a focal point for both angels and demons, with both sides vying for control over its power. The events of Diablo II: Lord of Destruction culminate in the destruction of the Worldstone, setting the stage for the future of the series.
Key Characters
The Diablo series features numerous memorable characters, some of whom play recurring roles across the games. Some of these iconic figures include:
- Deckard Cain: A wise scholar and the last of the Horadrim, Deckard Cain has been a central figure in the series, guiding players through their quests and unraveling the mysteries of Sanctuary.
- Tyrael: An archangel who has appeared in all three games, Tyrael is a powerful ally and a champion of humanity. He often provides players with crucial information and assistance in their battles against the forces of evil.
- Leah: Introduced in Diablo III, Leah is the niece of Deckard Cain and plays a pivotal role in the game’s story. Her tragic fate serves as a driving force for the events of Diablo III and beyond.
Understanding the lore and key characters of the Diablo series can add depth and context to your gaming experience. As you embark on your journey in Diablo 4, keep an eye out for familiar faces, hidden story elements, and the epic continuation of the battle between Heaven and Hell.
Gameplay Basics: What to Expect in Diablo 4
The Diablo series is known for its fast-paced, hack-and-slash gameplay, with players battling hordes of demons and other dark creatures. Here are some key gameplay elements to keep in mind as a beginner:
- Character classes: Each game in the series features distinct character classes with unique abilities and playstyles. In Diablo 4, players can choose from the Barbarian, Sorceress, Druid, Rogue, and the newly announced Paladin class. For detailed information on each class, visit the Diablo 4 official website.
- Loot and itemization: One of the most addictive aspects of Diablo is the loot system, which rewards players with powerful weapons, armor, and other items as they progress through the game. In Diablo 4, the developers have promised a more in-depth and rewarding loot system, inspired by the fan-favorite Diablo II. To learn more about the loot system, check out this Game Informer article.
- Skill system: In Diablo games, players can customize their characters by investing points into various skills and abilities. Diablo 4 promises to bring back the deep and meaningful character customization that fans loved in Diablo II, allowing players to create unique builds tailored to their playstyle. For more information on the skill system, check out this PC Gamer article.
- Dungeon exploration: At the heart of the Diablo series is the dungeon-crawling experience, where players explore randomly generated environments filled with enemies, traps, and treasure. Diablo 4 promises to deliver even more varied and dynamic dungeons, with a seamless open-world design. For a glimpse at the dungeon gameplay, watch this official gameplay trailer.
Essential Tips for Diablo Newcomers
If you’re new to the Diablo series, these tips will help you get started on the right foot before playing Diablo 4:
- Experiment with different classes: Each class in Diablo offers a unique playstyle, and it’s worth trying them all to find the one that suits you best. Don’t be afraid to start multiple characters and explore different builds.
- Take your time exploring: Diablo games are filled with secrets, side quests, and hidden areas. Make sure to explore each area thoroughly, as you might find valuable loot or interesting story elements.
- Make use of the game’s difficulty settings: The Diablo series offers adjustable difficulty levels, allowing you to tailor the challenge to your preferences. If you’re new to the series, consider starting on a lower difficulty setting and adjusting it as you become more comfortable with the game.
- Learn to manage your inventory: Diablo games are known for their vast array of items, and managing your inventory can be an essential part of the experience. Learn to prioritize which items to keep and which to sell or salvage, and make use of the game’s stash to store valuable items for later use.
- Play with friends: Diablo is an incredibly fun experience when played with friends, whether you’re tackling difficult challenges together or simply exploring the world. Make sure to take advantage of the game’s multiplayer features and enjoy the camaraderie of battling the forces of evil as a team.
Conclusion
As a loving dad who grew up with the classic Diablo games, I hope this beginner’s guide has provided you with a solid foundation before playing Diablo 4. With its engaging gameplay, deep character customization, and immersive world, the Diablo series offers countless hours of enjoyment and excitement. So, prepare yourself for the epic journey ahead, and may your adventures in Sanctuary be filled with thrilling battles, epic loot, and unforgettable memories.