First released on the PC in 2000, Diablo II is one of the older games in Blizzard Entertainment’s catalogue which still has a loyal fanbase to this day. During Blizzcon 2021 back in February, the studio announced that a ‘Resurrected’ version will be released this year for both fans and newcomers alike to enjoy on the PC and Consoles. In development for the Windows PC, Nintendo Switch and both active generations of Xbox and PlayStation consoles, here’s hoping that this serves as a better “remaster” than the ill-fated Warcraft III remake last year.
Fans and newcomers to Diablo II alike don’t have too much longer until the game hits store shelves, with a 24 September 2021 release date shared by Blizzard Entertainment this week. On this date, players will be able to experience the full original game alongside its Lord of Destruction expansion, in up to 4K resoluition, fully realised 3D heroes, recreated cutscenes and a soundtrack remastered into 7.1 Dolby Surround Audio.
On Diablo II: Resurrected, the development team had this to say.:
While Diablo II: Resurrected takes full advantage of today’s modern gaming hardware, it also preserves the timeless hack-and-slash gameplay that is as engrossing and enjoyable today as it was twenty years ago—with a few quality-of-life updates Diablo veterans have been clamouring for, such as a larger stash and automatic gold pickup. Players experiencing teary-eyed nostalgia as they relive fond memories of spinning hammers and exploding corpses can seamlessly swap between the modern graphics and the original 800×600 resolution experience with the push of a button.
A Diablo II: Resurrected multiplayer open beta will take place on supporting platforms in August, featuring five of the final game’s seven highly customisable character classes for players to choose from—the Amazon, Barbarian, Paladin, and Sorceress from the core game, as well as the Druid from the included Lord of Destruction expansion.
The Lord of Terror has demanded that we remaster Diablo II, and we are excited to do his bidding by bringing Diablo II: Resurrected to PC and console players this September, with cross-progression so everyone can enjoy it on their preferred system.
We also look forward to welcoming new and returning Diablo players to our upcoming multiplayer open beta. Their feedback will help us put the finishing touches on a game we hope players will continue to enjoy for many years to come.”
J. Allen Brack – President of Blizzard Entertainment
