Early plans for Diablo IV envisioned a significant departure from the series' established formula, according to Diablo III director Josh Mosqueira. The initial concept prioritized a more dynamic, action-oriented experience.
Diablo IV's Near-Miss: A Roguelike Action-Adventure
A recent WIRED report, drawing from Jason Schreier's book Play Nice, reveals that Diablo IV's development almost took a dramatically different path. Mosqueira, aiming to revitalize the franchise after the perceived shortcomings of Diablo III, proposed a game drastically unlike its predecessors.
Codenamed "Hades," this early iteration would have featured a third-person perspective, reminiscent of the Batman: Arkham series, and incorporated roguelike elements, including permadeath. The combat was intended to be faster-paced and more impactful.
However, several challenges derailed this vision. The ambitious co-op multiplayer aspects proved particularly problematic. Internal discussions questioned the game's identity: was it truly a Diablo game anymore, given the significant deviations in gameplay mechanics, rewards, and even monster and hero designs? Ultimately, the team concluded that "Hades" was essentially a new IP, not a Diablo game.
Diablo IV's Recent Expansion: Vessel of Hatred
Diablo IV recently released its first major expansion, Vessel of Hatred. This DLC plunges players into the dark world of Nahantu in 1336, uncovering Mephisto's sinister machinations. [Link to review would go here]
