So, are you ready to stay awhile and listen? As most gear up their controllers, sharpen their mice, and settle in nicely for the story of Lilith and Inarius and how Sanctuary came to be, critics finally got a chance to tell us their spoiler-free thoughts on Diablo 4. And, to no one's surprise, most of the reviews about Diablo 4 have been positive, overall. But, is it as good as Blizzard Entertainment wants it to be?
Gameplay-wise, Diablo 4 delivers on the heart and soul of the series. Reviewers are fawning all over the game's progression systems and end-game content. The introduction of the World Tier adds a layer of challenge to the game, giving hardcore players a chance to walk away with greater spoils. It's a potent mix of action and adventure that will satisfy longtime fans and make them want to keep on coming back for more.
Blizzard appears to have learned from its mistakes with Diablo 3. The world-building in Diablo 4 is phenomenal. It's clear a lot of extra attention was devoted to the littlelest of details. Critics agree that the development team has created a hellish world that welcomes you with open arms and makes you want to stay there, with labyrinthine corridors and haunted catacombs and all.
But, while Diablo 4 lands the grim and macabre nature that made Diablo 4 so beloved (and Diablo 3 so, well, reviled), it isn't afraid to throw in a touch of humor to the grim visage of the downtrodden landscape at all.
Here's a round-up of the notable reviews of Diablo 4 before we proceed with the nitty and gritty:
- Windows Central - 5/5
- Dexerto - 5/5
- Video Game Chronicle - 5/5
- GamesRadar+ - 5/5
- Push Square - 9/10
- DualShockers - 8.5/10
- ComicBook.com - 4.5/5
- VG247 - 4/5
- PlayStation Universe - 8/10
Moving on, while most of what we've said might make you believe that Lilith's evil machinations are at work and are forcing us to sing Diablo 4 praises, you don't have to worry. Critics haven't been brainwashed by the Queen of the Succubi.
Blizzard might have spent an inordinate amount of time tweaking Diablo 4, especially after the recent Server Slam event, it isn't perfect.
Although the issues aren't detracting enough to make you want to put down your gear for a while, it remains a pain point. Can you imagine finding yourself in a life-or-death struggle only for the game to crash - repeatedly? It's a soul-crushing experience that didn't spare reviewers, even those that had mostly good things to say about Diablo 4.
As for the story, it's a matter of taste. Some found the narrative to be good but not great. It's a worthy addition to the lore of the franchise albeit jarring.
Keep in mind though that the second review embargo, which is no longer spoiler-free, is coming. By then, critics can talk in length about what exactly happened in Diablo 4.
The ultimate deal-breaker about Diablo 4 for some is the worrisome game's monetization model. Just like how the titular villain's ever-present shadow looms over the series, there's a sense of dread and skepticism in the air due to the existence of a battle pass and an in-game store. The jury's still out on how this aspect of Diablo 4 will play out but critics are rightfully concerned.
In the grand league of reviews though, Diablo 4 appears to have hit it out of the park. With several high-scoring reviews in spite of the bugs and potential live-service concerns, we give our hats off to Blizzard.
At the end of the day, Diablo 4 accomplishes what it should - take audiences on a wild, hellish ride of demonic slaying, treasure hunting, and power leveling.
