<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" xmlns:georss="http://www.georss.org/georss" xmlns:geo="http://www.w3.org/2003/01/geo/wgs84_pos#" > <channel> <title>Blizzard Archives - The Escapist</title> <atom:link href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/tag/blizzard/feed/?device_type=desktop&unified_experience=true&concat_css=false&concat_js=false&article_assistant_desktop_location=postarticle&gamurs_network_account=true&commenting_experience=true&do_custom_image_sizes=true&recirculation_provider=internal&content_ad_injection_character_count=400" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/tag/blizzard/</link> <description>Everything fun</description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 04 Oct 2024 22:02:57 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2</generator> <image> <url>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/cropped-escapist-favicon.jpg?fit=32%2C32</url> <title>Blizzard Archives - The Escapist</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/tag/blizzard/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">211000634</site> <item> <title>Diablo IV Video Offers More Gameplay, Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Dangers of Sanctuary</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-video-gameplay-development-deep-dive-world-of-sanctuary/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-video-gameplay-development-deep-dive-world-of-sanctuary/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Michael Cripe]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 21 Feb 2023 20:09:50 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Diablo IV]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=136337</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Blizzard has published a seven-and-a-half-minute <em>Diablo IV</em> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcQ-JcYMyZ0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">video called “The World of Sanctuary</a>” that dives into how the project’s many elements come together to create a perfect dungeon-crawling experience, in addition to showing some more gameplay. In the video, multiple members of the development team talk through the thought that went into the art direction, environments, monsters, exploration, and more. <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-update-videos-tour-hellish-landscapes-dark-dungeons/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Diablo IV</em></a> is trying to offer an experience that speaks to newcomers and returning fans, and that meant bringing the series back to its roots with a dark visual style and monsters that look like they’ve been ripped straight out of hell.</p> <p>When fans got their first look at <em>Diablo IV</em>, they immediately latched on to its burnt, dying world. The team says they were aiming to bring the art style back to a <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-resurrected-patch-2-4-first-ladder-season-out-now/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Diablo II</em></a>-like, macabre feel.</p> <p>“How would the people of Sanctuary show their world? What kinds of art would they use to describe the world?” Senior Quest Designer II Harrison Pink said. “One of the things we really wanted to do was make the game feel like a painting.”</p> <p>Not all of the five <em>Diablo IV</em> zones will look the same, however, as places like Kehjistan feature a dusty glow, while Scosglen is inspired by Scotland. The Fractured Peaks, meanwhile, will see players traveling through snowy mountains, the Dry Steppes takes players into a shadowy desert region, and Hawezar adds to the variety with swamp locations. Each of these regions will greet players with creatures familiar and new, with some enemy types, such as the Fallen, receiving “darker and scarier” redesigns. It all plays into environments that encourage exploration in different ways.</p> <p>“We also have these massive World Bosses that are so big that the camera has to pull out even further,” Pink added. “And you’re going to have an opportunity to fight these bosses with your friends or with strangers to take down these huge World Bosses.”</p> <p>Of course, for all of the new details we learned today, the real highlight is that we get to see even more <em>Diablo IV</em> gameplay ahead of launch. You can see the discussion and gameplay for yourself in “The World of Sanctuary” below.</p> <div class="mnmd-responsive-video"><iframe title="Diablo IV | Inside the Game - The World of Sanctuary" width="1200" height="675" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qcQ-JcYMyZ0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> <p>In case you missed it, Blizzard announced its <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-open-beta-dates-march-2023-includes-all-of-act-1/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Diablo IV</em> open beta schedule</a> for PC and consoles over the weekend. An early access beta for those who pre-purchased the game will take place from March 17-19, with the full open beta coming just a week later from March 24-26. While progress will carry over between each set of dates, save data will not carry over to the final release when <em>Diablo IV</em> launches on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X | S on June 6, 2023.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-video-gameplay-development-deep-dive-world-of-sanctuary/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">136337</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Diablo IV Open Beta Dates Set for March, Includes All of Act 1</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-open-beta-dates-march-2023-includes-all-of-act-1/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-open-beta-dates-march-2023-includes-all-of-act-1/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Michael Cripe]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 18 Feb 2023 21:25:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Diablo IV]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=136025</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Blizzard has set <a href="https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/diablo4/23916442/your-guide-to-the-diablo-iv-open-beta" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Diablo IV</em> beta dates</a> for March 2023 across PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X | S, and the beta will include the Prologue and all of Act 1. Those who pre-purchased <em>Diablo IV</em> gain early access and can play March 17-19, with the open beta available a week later on all platforms March 24-26.</p> <p>As fans make their way through the chilling sights of the Fractured Wastes, the first zone in <em>Diablo IV</em>, they’ll be able to reach a level cap of 25. While beta progress will carry over between weekends, Blizzard <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-director-luis-barriga-lead-game-designer-jesse-mccree-exit-blizzard/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">game director</a> Joe Shely explained to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrBjTOG-9Iw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IGN</a> that open beta progress will not carry over to the final release later this year. He added, “Obviously, the character progress during the beta will get whipped before release. We want everyone to start with a fair playing field.” Still, the open beta presents a great opportunity for the public to go hands-on with one of the most anticipated AAA titles of 2023.</p> <p>Blizzard further explained that “the experience is not finalized and you may encounter performance issues, outages, and come across things that simply don’t work. After the Open Beta concludes, we’ll evaluate all feedback we’ve received and will make changes as needed. We look forward to you experiencing this small taste of what <em>Diablo IV</em> has to offer.”</p> <p>A look at the game from last year showed off many of the <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-update-videos-tour-hellish-landscapes-dark-dungeons/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">miserable locations players will spend hours in</a>. You’ll be able to battle demons and hoard loot when <em>Diablo IV</em> launches for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X | S on June 6, 2023, but first, there are the open beta dates to look forward to.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-open-beta-dates-march-2023-includes-all-of-act-1/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">136025</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Overwatch 2 PVP Review in 3 Minutes – Overwatch Is Back</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/overwatch-2-pvp-review-in-3-minutes-overwatch-is-back/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/overwatch-2-pvp-review-in-3-minutes-overwatch-is-back/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[KC Nwosu]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 05 Oct 2022 16:30:38 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Review in 3 Minutes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Reviews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Series]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Overwatch]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Overwatch 2]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=126647</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="mnmd-responsive-video"><iframe title="Overwatch 2 (PVP) | Review in 3 Minutes" width="1200" height="675" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_KocS-MlEcg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> <p><i>Overwatch 2</i> is the sequel to the 2016 breakout hero shooter from <a href="https://www.blizzard.com/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blizzard</a>. This review will only cover the PvP side of <em>Overwatch 2</em>, as the much anticipated PvE portion has been pushed back to sometime next year.</p> <p>Right out of the gate, <i>Overwatch 2</i> introduces some notable changes. First and foremost is its new free-to-play model, which removes loot boxes and injects a standard battle pass progression into the formula. While this eliminates the uncertainty of where the money you spend goes, it introduces significant grind or costs for cosmetic and character unlocks. The experience for new and returning players will differ as veterans will have access to the original roster and two of its three new additions, Sojourn and Junker Queen. Kiriko will need to either be purchased or unlocked about halfway through the 80-tier free track of the battle pass.</p> <p>New players will go through an onboarding process, slowly unlocking the roster over time. It’s an aggressive decision meant to ease them into the game’s mechanics and meta over 100 or so matches. Casual modes will not impose these character limitations, but the competitive mode will demand 50 victories in quickplay before you’re allowed to participate. As a long-time <i>Overwatch</i> player I like the idea of preparing newbies for the sweaty team comp and counter-picking meta, but I imagine some players may resent the hand-holding and restrictions.</p> <p>The second big change is a shift from 6v6 to 5v5 matches. This speeds up pretty much all team fights and helps healers and tanks manage their roles easier with the reduced number of players. Tanks in particular feel retuned to compensate for the lack of a sixth player, with many of them now being much more dangerous to approach. Orisa for example no longer has a shield to hide behind but instead can launch a spear that can push and pin enemies to walls. Many DPS characters received tweaks that seem to promote less camping, like Cassidy’s flash bang being swapped out for a sticky grenade or Bastion’s turret mode now being mobile and on a cooldown. Generally speaking, gameplay feels much the same as in <i>Overwatch 1</i>, which is to say it’s fun as all hell.</p> <p>There’s no change so significant to the core gameplay that it feels like a different experience, which may disappoint anyone who wasn’t already sipping the <i>Overwatch</i> Kool-Aid. But the lower barrier to entry, namely the free price tag, may entice holdouts to give it a try. To veteran players or those who have lapsed, the game will likely feel very familiar even while experiencing the new content.</p> <p>The new Push game mode emulates a sort of reverse tug of war and has each team leading a robot to move a barrier further into enemy territory than the other. It fits so naturally among the payload and capture game types that it feels odd for it to have only shown up now. New maps are set in locations like Rome, Toronto, and Portugal and also seamlessly blend in with the original content to the point that I questioned if a few were actually new or not. But none of that familiarity works against the game. You can expect all of the previous game modes and custom workshop creations to be available as well.</p> <p>The characters and maps have all undergone a nice graphical facelift, but it’s so subtle you could be forgiven for not seeing the difference without a direct comparison. However, everything is just a little more fluid and detailed than before.</p> <p><i>Overwatch 2</i> so far feels like the reawakening of a sleeping giant. The original game dwindled in presence mostly due to a lack of updates, which this sequel essentially is. What comes with the anticipated single-player experience still remains to be seen and is an intriguing unknown, but even without it, <i>Overwatch</i> is back. The game is free to play and releases October 4 on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.</p> <p>Watch the <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/category/3-minute-reviews/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Review in 3 Minutes</a> for <em>Overwatch 2</em> PVP.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/overwatch-2-pvp-review-in-3-minutes-overwatch-is-back/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">126647</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Mobile Warcraft MMO Reportedly Canceled at Blizzard & NetEase</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/mobile-warcraft-mmo-reportedly-canceled-at-blizzard-netease/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/mobile-warcraft-mmo-reportedly-canceled-at-blizzard-netease/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Friscia]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 2022 15:37:23 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[NetEase]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warcraft]]></category> <category><![CDATA[world of warcraft]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=124106</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>To say that Activision Blizzard has entered a transitional period would be an understatement following its myriad scandals and its acquisition by Microsoft, and the challenges keep coming. <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-08-03/blizzard-netease-scrap-warcraft-game-after-financing-dispute" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bloomberg</a> reports that Blizzard and NetEase have canceled a mobile <em>Warcraft</em> MMO (codenamed “Neptune”) that was in development for three years, and NetEase has dissolved a team of more than 100 developers, many of whom were not transferred to other projects. The canceled mobile <em>Warcraft</em> MMO would have taken place in the same world as the venerated <em>World of Warcraft</em> but during a different time period.</p> <p>Blizzard and NetEase reportedly could not agree on the terms that defined the project, and Bloomberg perceives the cancellation as a blow to Blizzard’s relations with the extremely lucrative Chinese market, since NetEase is the second largest video game corporation in the country behind Tencent. However, NetEase continues to be the Chinese distributor for <em>World of Warcraft</em>.</p> <p>Meanwhile, Activision Blizzard is still invested in mobile gaming, which is part of the reason why Microsoft acquired it. <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/warcraft-arclight-rumble-mobile-strategy-game-beta-android-ios-blizzard/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Warcraft Arclight Rumble</em></a> is notably available for preregistration as a mobile strategy game, and <em>Diablo Immortal</em> is providing a mobile <em>Diablo</em> experience that is apparently pretty solid if you can overlook the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/forums/topic/67280-diablo-immortal-player-who-spent-100k-on-the-game-is-now-stuck-in-mmr-limbo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">breadth of optional microtransactions</a>.</p> <p>Though it’s canceled now, would you have been curious to play a mobile <em>Warcraft</em> MMO?</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/mobile-warcraft-mmo-reportedly-canceled-at-blizzard-netease/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">124106</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Warcraft Arclight Rumble Revealed as a Mobile Strategy Game</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/warcraft-arclight-rumble-mobile-strategy-game-beta-android-ios-blizzard/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/warcraft-arclight-rumble-mobile-strategy-game-beta-android-ios-blizzard/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Friscia]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 03 May 2022 17:44:18 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warcraft Arclight Rumble]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=120801</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Blizzard has shared the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqnFIohEQ1M" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cinematic announcement trailer</a> for <em>Warcraft Arclight Rumble</em>, a new “action-packed” <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/warcraft-mobile-game-to-be-revealed-next-week-for-better-or-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mobile strategy game</a> coming to Android and iOS in select regions this year. The game will entail building armies out of famous <em>Warcraft</em> heroes and villains in tactical missions. In total, there will be more than 60 characters to collect in the style of “lovingly sculpted tabletop miniatures.” The single-player campaign will contain more than 70 missions, each offering its own hand-crafted real-time strategic puzzle to solve, and there will also be cooperative missions (including “Raids”) and PvP battles. There will be even more content in the form of “Dungeons,” which provide additional single-player challenges.</p> <p>The <em>Warcraft Arclight Rumble</em> cinematic announcement trailer is beautiful, but it doesn’t show real gameplay. There is <a href="https://warcraftrumble.blizzard.com/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">some gameplay</a> on the Blizzard website though, <strong>(Update: The gameplay has been embedded at bottom.)</strong> and Blizzard has shared some more concrete details. Each army will have a “Leader,” an important character like Warsong chieftain Grommash Hellscream and Archmage Jaina Proudmoore. “Troops” with “Spells” will round out the rest of the armies. Players will be able to earn in-game currency and level up their characters by playing the game or through in-app purchases, but pricing and inventory are not being discussed yet.</p> <p>Lastly, <em>Warcraft Arclight Rumble</em> will offer “Guilds” for friends to team up, chat, and work toward “collective goals.” Blizzard pre-registration for <em>Warcraft Arclight Rumble</em> has begun ahead of its beta, details for which will be revealed soon.</p> <div class="mnmd-responsive-video"><iframe title="Warcraft Arclight Rumble Announce Cinematic Trailer" width="1200" height="675" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tqnFIohEQ1M?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> <p><em>“Warcraft Arclight Rumble </em>provides the sort of experience that we always strive to create at Blizzard,” said Blizzard Entertainment president Mike Ybarra. “It’s instantly fun, yet deep and rewarding over the long term, and we’re immensely proud to bring a new and authentic representation of <em>Warcraft</em> to mobile. We can’t wait for players to experience the joyful chaos of this game for themselves.”</p> <div class="mnmd-responsive-video"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Gameplay Preview Trailer | Warcraft Arclight Rumble" width="1200" height="675" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0jPOG8Nru_E?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> <p>Meanwhile, there is more Blizzard available on phones, with the arrival of <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/diablo-immortal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Diablo Immortal</em></a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/warcraft-arclight-rumble-mobile-strategy-game-beta-android-ios-blizzard/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">120801</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Warcraft Mobile Game to Be Revealed Next Week, for Better or Worse</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/warcraft-mobile-game-to-be-revealed-next-week-for-better-or-worse/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/warcraft-mobile-game-to-be-revealed-next-week-for-better-or-worse/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Friscia]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 28 Apr 2022 18:14:21 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warcraft]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=120682</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Blizzard will reveal a new <em>Warcraft</em> mobile game on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT, and an <a href="https://reveal.blizzard.com/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">empty page has been set up</a> for the livestream. No other official details have been provided at this time, so you can expect a full info dump next week.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"> <p lang="en" dir="ltr">Join us for the reveal of a new mobile game set in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Warcraft?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" target="_blank">#Warcraft</a> Universe.</p> <p><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4c6.png" alt="📆" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> May 3rd<br /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f559.png" alt="🕙" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> 10am PT<br /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f310.png" alt="🌐" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> <a href="https://t.co/hb3oiYHQrm" target="_blank">https://t.co/hb3oiYHQrm</a> <a href="https://t.co/Tr8zIQmIHp" target="_blank">pic.twitter.com/Tr8zIQmIHp</a></p> <p>— World of Warcraft (@Warcraft) <a href="https://twitter.com/Warcraft/status/1519724375372562432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" target="_blank">April 28, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p> <p>Creating a mobile game as the next <em>Warcraft</em> experience is certainly a curious choice. The once undisputed king of MMORPGs, <em>World of Warcraft</em>, has given up its crown to <a href="https://www.siliconera.com/final-fantasy-xiv-6-11-patch-notes-include-pvp-adjustments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Final Fantasy XIV</em></a>, and the remake <a href="https://www.destructoid.com/warcraft-iii-reforged-gets-another-patch-to-smooth-over-its-sins-from-launch/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Warcraft III: Reforged</em></a> met with a hostile fan reception for various reasons. A mobile game might not be the best way to reignite excitement for the franchise, but until we actually know what it is, we should reserve judgement.</p> <p>Meanwhile, Blizzard recently announced a June launch for mobile game <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-immortal-launches-in-june-pc-version-added-with-cross-play/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Diablo Immortal</em></a>, which is now also coming to PC in free-to-play open beta. The <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/diablo-immortal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mobile and PC versions</a> will enjoy cross-play and cross-progression, a smart concession after the intensely negative original response to the game’s announcement. <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-update-videos-tour-hellish-landscapes-dark-dungeons/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Development of <em>Diablo IV</em></a> on PC seems to be proceeding smoothly as well.</p> <p>Microsoft is currently in the <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/microsoft-activision-blizzard-merger-antitrust-legal-qa-questions-answered/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">process of acquiring Activision Blizzard</a>, but should it receive government approval, it isn’t likely to affect the development of these new mobile titles.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/warcraft-mobile-game-to-be-revealed-next-week-for-better-or-worse/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">120682</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Diablo Immortal Launches in June, PC Version Added with Cross-Play</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-immortal-launches-in-june-pc-version-added-with-cross-play/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-immortal-launches-in-june-pc-version-added-with-cross-play/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Friscia]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 25 Apr 2022 14:18:05 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Diablo Immortal]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=120471</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Blizzard has released a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_sDxsXYn78w" target="_blank" rel="noopener">new trailer</a> for <em>Diablo Immortal</em>, revealing a June 2, 2022 release date on Android and iOS mobile devices, and it will also come free to play to PC with an “Open Beta” on Battle.net on the same day. The game will have full cross-play and cross-progression. It is a massively multiplayer online action RPG set between the events of <em>Diablo II</em> and <em>Diablo III</em>, where the Archangel Tyrael is presumed dead and mankind needs to figure out what to do next. Followers of Diablo are meanwhile attempting to collect fragments of the shattered Worldstone, which is currently tainting the land, in order to revive Diablo.</p> <p>Upon its mobile and release date this June, <em>Diablo Immortal</em> will offer six classes: Barbarian, Crusader, Demon Hunter, Monk, Necromancer, and Wizard. Some foes have also been revealed, including the Mad King Leoric (“the Skeleton King”), the haunted carriage, the vampiric Countess, the undying monarch Fahir, the Prime Evil Baal, and the “it’s what it sounds like” Glacial Colossus.</p> <div class="mnmd-responsive-video"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Diablo Immortal | Release Date & PC Announce Trailer" width="1200" height="675" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_sDxsXYn78w?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> <p>Typical mouse and keyboard controls will be available for the PC release, notably including the option of WASD directional controls. Game controller support will also be offered. Basically, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/diablo-immortal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">everything about <em>Diablo Immortal</em></a> sounds like Blizzard is trying to provide a relatively normal <em>Diablo</em> experience, <em>on paper</em> at least. Proceed with optimistic caution.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-immortal-launches-in-june-pc-version-added-with-cross-play/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">120471</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Diablo II: Resurrected Sees First Balance Patch in a Decade, First Ladder Season Soon</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-resurrected-patch-2-4-first-ladder-season-out-now/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-resurrected-patch-2-4-first-ladder-season-out-now/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[John Friscia]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 15 Apr 2022 14:20:52 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Diablo II: Resurrected]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=120102</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Blizzard has released patch 2.4 of <em>Diablo II: Resurrected</em>, offering the first real balance patch for the game in over a decade, and on April 28, the first competitive Ladder season will begin. Each class has been updated in some way, and there are new Rune Words, Horadric Cube Recipes, and Mercenary reworks, among other things. Meanwhile, for its first season, <em>Diablo II: Resurrected</em> will offer four Ladder modes with associated leaderboards: Classic, Hardcore Classic, Expansion, and Hardcore Expansion.</p> <p>Here are the details for each ladder:</p> <ul> <li>Classic Ladder: The normal version of Ladder play that encompasses playing with four acts.</li> <li>Hardcore Classic Ladder: The hardcore (only 1 life) version of Ladder play that encompasses playing with four acts.</li> <li>Expansion Ladder: The normal version of Ladder play that encompasses playing five acts, as it includes the <em>Lord of Destruction</em> expansion content.</li> <li>Hardcore Expansion: The hardcore (only 1 life) version of Ladder play that encompasses playing five acts, as it includes the <em>Lord of Destruction</em> expansion content.</li> </ul> <p>During gameplay, you can use “/ladder” and “/helpladder” to obtain information about the start and end of the Ladder season. In North America, <em>Diablo II: Resurrected</em> Ladder Season 1 will begin at April 28 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT specifically. However, there are <a href="https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/diablo2/23788293/diablo-ii-resurrected-patch-2-4-now-live" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tons more patch notes</a> for <em>Diablo II: Resurrected</em> patch 2.4 where that came from, so check them out for more info.</p> <p>Meanwhile, <em>Diablo IV</em> is still <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-update-videos-tour-hellish-landscapes-dark-dungeons/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">steadily progressing through its development</a>, offering a darker experience than <em>Diablo III</em> did, and <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/diablo-immortal/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Diablo Immortal</em></a> will provide a free-to-play experience.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-resurrected-patch-2-4-first-ladder-season-out-now/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">120102</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Diablo IV Rogue Class First Details Unveiled in Announcement Trailer</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-rogue-class/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-rogue-class/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Damien Lawardorn]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2021 23:44:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Diablo IV]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=42450</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On the opening day of BlizzConline 2021, Blizzard provided new details about <em>Diablo IV</em>, focusing on the Rogue class. Game Director Luis Barriga described the class’s implementation in the upcoming title as a “re-envisioning.”</p> <p>According to Barriga, the Rogue class retains its versatility from earlier iterations in the series, emphasizing complete player freedom to focus on either archery or stealth builds. He added that a deep dive on the class would be coming in a dedicated stream later today.</p> <p>Barriga also shared a fresh <em>Diablo IV</em> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvrLZ4yETHI" target="_blank" rel="noopener">trailer</a> centering on a conversation between a Rogue and a priest as the former makes a confession of her sins before switching to a gameplay segment showcasing the class’s ranged and fast-paced melee skills, alongside some adventuring.</p> <div class="mnmd-responsive-video"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Diablo IV - Rogue Announce Trailer" width="1200" height="675" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LvrLZ4yETHI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> <p><em>Diablo IV</em> was first announced <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/hell-is-coming-in-diablo-iv-first-gameplay-trailer/">back in 2019</a>, and Blizzard has drip-fed us information since then, including teasing open-world gameplay in the biggest setting of the series to date. The game still has no release window or official target, though PC is a safe bet. The latest consoles seem like a strong possibility as well.</p> <p>The other big news from the <em>Diablo</em> segment of the stream is the official confirmation of <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-resurrected-coming-to-consoles-pc-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a remaster of <em>Diablo II</em></a>, which was first mentioned in <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-remake-reportedly-in-production-at-blizzard-vicarious-visions/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a report last month</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-rogue-class/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">42450</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Diablo II Remake Reportedly in Production at Blizzard, Vicarious Visions</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-remake-reportedly-in-production-at-blizzard-vicarious-visions/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-remake-reportedly-in-production-at-blizzard-vicarious-visions/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Damien Lawardorn]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 23 Jan 2021 01:09:52 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Diablo II]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vicarious Visions]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=40656</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Vicarious Visions, <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/vicarious-visions-blizzard-merger-tony-hawk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the studio newly merged with Blizzard</a>, is working on a remake of <em>Diablo II</em>, according to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-01-22/blizzard-absorbs-activision-studio-after-dismantling-classic-games-team" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a report from Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier</a>.</p> <p>The report states that the remake was originally being headed by Blizzard’s Team 1, which handled last year’s <em>Warcraft III: Reforged</em>. However, in the wake of that game’s poor reception and an internal post-mortem, that project was reassigned to the division behind <em>Diablo IV</em>, with support from Vicarious Visions. The post-mortem highlighted communication problems and financial pressure from management among the reasons for the problems with <em>Reforged, </em>which included widespread complaints about fundamental technical issues and poorly regarded changes to the visual design of the 2002 original.</p> <p>Exactly how long the <em>Diablo II</em> remake has been in development under the new team is unclear, as Blizzard’s official statement did not acknowledge the project and only stated that the developer and Vicarious Visions have been working together “for some time.” Nonetheless, Schreier’s report notes that Blizzard’s Team 1 was announced to be reorganized — or effectively shut down — with most staff either being placed elsewhere within Blizzard or departing the company altogether. Some reportedly went to join former Blizzard alumni at <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/dreamhaven-publishing-company-two-new-game-studios-established-by-former-blizzard-ceo/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dreamhaven</a> and <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/frost-giant-studios-is-a-new-studio-of-former-blizzard-devs-making-an-rts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Frost Giant Studios</a>.</p> <p>Vicarious Visions has expertise with developing high-quality remakes, having recently worked on <em>Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy</em> and <em>Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 and 2</em>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-ii-remake-reportedly-in-production-at-blizzard-vicarious-visions/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">40656</post-id> </item> <item> <title>BlizzConline (BlizzCon) Rescheduled by Blizzard to February 2021</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/blizzard-blizzconline-blizzcon-rescheduled-to-february-2021/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/blizzard-blizzconline-blizzcon-rescheduled-to-february-2021/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Michael Cripe]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2020 22:11:37 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BlizzCon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BlizzConline]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=34156</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The next BlizzCon has been rescheduled and will now premiere as a digital presentation early next year. Blizzard revealed the new date on its <a href="https://blizzcon.com/en-us/news/23513935" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">website</a>, saying that fans will be able to tune into BlizzConline Feb. 19-20, 2021. The original plan was to hold its usual in-person event later this year, though the company later reconsidered due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.</p> <p>To help make sure fans remain a key part of the next BlizzCon, Blizzard provided details on how those interested can be involved in various portions of a Community Showcase, such as the Cosplay Contest, Art Contest, and Talent Spotlight.</p> <p>Blizzard also uses BlizzCon to put a spotlight on game announcements and reveals. How the company plans to incorporate announcements during BlizzConline remains to be seen.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"> <p lang="en" dir="ltr"><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f4e2.png" alt="📢" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> BlizzConline is set to take place February 19-20, 2021!</p> <p>There's lots of planning left to do, but we wanted to provide an early heads-up on how you can take part in the online festivities! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f389.png" alt="🎉" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></p> <p>Check out the blog for more details on the fun! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f440.png" alt="👀" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></p> <p><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> <a href="https://t.co/fY1x6SBMZm" target="_blank">https://t.co/fY1x6SBMZm</a> <a href="https://t.co/QNev7OiGFX" target="_blank">pic.twitter.com/QNev7OiGFX</a></p> <p>— Blizzard Entertainment (@Blizzard_Ent) <a href="https://twitter.com/Blizzard_Ent/status/1308091122888179712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" target="_blank">September 21, 2020</a></p></blockquote> <p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p> <p>Last year, Blizzard revealed the long, long-awaited <em><a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/hell-is-coming-in-diablo-iv-first-gameplay-trailer/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Diablo IV</a></em>, showing off some crisp new visuals for one of its oldest franchises. The company also officially revealed <em><a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/overwatch-2-revealed-has-shared-multiplayer-experience-with-original/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Overwatch 2</a></em>, which will sport a shared multiplayer experience with the original game. Hopefully, by the time the upcoming event rolls around, the company will be willing to share more details and release plans for <em>Overwatch 2</em> and <em>Diablo IV</em>. Both titles are a long time in the making and still have a way to go before release, so it’s probably safest to assume that we won’t see any similarly large reveals at BlizzConline.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/blizzard-blizzconline-blizzcon-rescheduled-to-february-2021/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">34156</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Diablo IV to Receive PC Controller Support, Unveils Cannibals Tribe</title> <link>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-to-receive-pc-controller-support-unveils-cannibals-tribe/</link> <comments>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-to-receive-pc-controller-support-unveils-cannibals-tribe/#disqus_thread</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Tyler Treese]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 26 Feb 2020 20:41:31 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Games]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Activision Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blizzard]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Diablo IV]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.escapistmagazine.com/?p=22131</guid> <description><![CDATA[]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In a <a href="https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/diablo4/23308274/diablo-iv-quarterly-update-february-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">news post</a> over on their official site, Blizzard gave new details about <em>Diablo IV</em>. In their first quarterly update, the developer outlined controller support, how the couch cooperative play user interface will work, and a new monster family called the Cannibals tribe. There’s still no release for the upcoming <a href="https://www.escapistmagazine.com/hell-is-coming-in-diablo-iv-first-gameplay-trailer/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">action role-playing game</a> that is being developed for both consoles and PC simultaneously.</p> <p>The first <em>Diablo IV</em> update came from Lead UI Designer Angela Del Priore. She revealed that players will be able to shift between keyboard and mouse and controller inputs freely and that the user interface has been designed around that. Due to this, the layouts are more grid-based than in previous titles. Her goal was to create controller-friendly shortcuts while not changing what PC players expect from the UI. As such, <em>Diablo IV</em> should feel fine no matter how the player chooses to play.</p> <div class="mnmd-responsive-video"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Cannibal Family Turnaround - Diablo IV Q1 2020 Update" width="1200" height="675" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NZl1p7ZYRuM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> <p>Del Priore also outlined the cooperative play in <em>Diablo IV</em>. One of the biggest complaints about how it was implemented in <em>Diablo III: Reaper of Souls</em> was that players couldn’t do anything if a local player had a UI screen open. As such, they’ve decided to focus on two-player co-op for their UI design and have made it so both players can go through the core progression UI screens at the same time.</p> <p>Blizzard Senior Encounter Designer Candace Thomas unveiled details on a new monster family called the Cannibals. There are four members in the flesh-eating family, each with their own unique weapon and fighting stance. Two of these are melee combatants, with one wielding a two-handed greatsword cleaver to deliver slow yet damaging blows, while the other uses a lightweight halberd to close the distance. Meanwhile, the bruiser uses a spiked club that will stun players, and swarmers use dual-axes to attack players head-on.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.escapistmagazine.com/diablo-iv-to-receive-pc-controller-support-unveils-cannibals-tribe/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">22131</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss>