We all knew that the first expansion for Diablo IV was coming – but beyond a jungle setting and a name, a lot of it was kept a mystery. Well speculate no more, because a delightful dishing of details have come our way thanks to the Xbox Showcase, with an October 8 release date dropping alongside a cinematic trailer AND a small dev diary about what to expect.
Oh, and a teeny taste of what the new Class shall be – the Spiritborn.
To be expected, Vessel of Hatred will expand the narrative that was explored in the base game of Diablo IV – following on from where the initial tale left off, and bringing some exciting new features to the core experience.
- CONTINUE THE CAMPAIGN—Set immediately following the events of Diablo IV, Vessel of Hatred continues the dark story as you fight to save Neyrelle from Mephisto’s tightening grip on her soul, still reeling from the choice she made to contain him. The search for Neyrelle takes you deep into the ancient jungle as she grapples with the imprisoned Prime Evil. Attempt to unravel Mephisto’s dark plot while new foes encircle your every move, planning your demise. The fate of Neyrelle’s soul—and her ability to stop this Prime Evil from destroying Sanctuary—rests in your hands.
- NEW GAME UPDATES—Vessel of Hatred also has huge updates for all Diablo IV players with new class skills, paragon boards, legendary glyphs, dungeon types, Tree of Whispers activities, and more.
- Never fight alone as new Mercenaries can join you on your quest to fight in the dense undergrowth of Nahantu and beyond. These powerful allies grow in power as they progress, and each are equipped with unique abilities to help you in combat.
- A new co-op PvE mode where you work with your friends to complete objectives and slay the boss in a multi-level dungeon, while getting loot and rewards.
Some details have also been shown off regarding the new class that will be coming alongside the expansion, with more information coming on July 18 as a proper breakdown on what a Spiritborn is:
- NEW CLASS: SPIRITBORN—Ranked among the apex predators of the jungle, the Spiritborn is an entirely new class to the Diablo series. They are battle-hardened with mystical synergies that could only be awakened deep within the jungles of Nahantu. Become one of the Spiritborn and embrace the ethereal Spirits entwined with this ancient civilisation.
Sounds neat. Magic warriors are always a fun time.
For current players of Diablo IV, there is also an awesome free update to the game that has rolled out already – bringing pets to the game. In fact, if you jump in-game today you can claim a free canine pet to become your new poochy pal.
This aligns well with the details surrounding the various editions of the Vessel of Hatred expansion, because some of those edition come packing a pet inclusion – such as Hratli the canine pet in the Deluxe edition, or Natalya the tiger pet in the Ultimate edition. Full details via the Battle.Net website if you want to take a look at what price point interests you.
If you are keen to expand your Diablo IV experience, keep your calendar open for October 8.
What is the Spiritborn class? Sounds like something you want to main? Let us know in the comments or on social media.