With the upcoming release of Diablo IV, one of the biggest gripes we’ve witnessed from fans within the community is regarding the game’s character classes. At launch, Diablo IV will feature five—the Barbarian, Druid, Necromancer, Rogue, and Sorceress. While there is undoubtedly some variety in how each class plays, along with unique quest lines specific to each one, these are character classes from previous Diablo games, with nothing breaking the mold…yet.
What about future expansions for Diablo IV? Developer Blizzard Entertainment previously noted their commitment to ongoing story development by releasing seasonal content every three months. They still need to, however, detail any plans for significant game expansions. But, if we’re feeling bold, it’s entirely realistic to assume the studio will release major expansions down the line, especially considering they designed Diablo IV as a live-service game with support for years to come.
With the release of such expansions, could we see new classes in Diablo IV? Only time will tell, indeed. We can still speculate about new or returning classes that may adventure into Sanctuary!
Past Diablo Classes Under the Microscope
As a prime example of how character classes may be later introduced to Diablo IV, let’s turn the clocks back briefly to Diablo 3—the last mainline entry in the series. Upon launch, Diablo 3 features the Barbarian, Witch Doctor, Wizard, Monk, and Demon Hunter. You’ll note a few of these classes, like the Barbarian and Wizard, are series staples and appear in some form throughout each game. But in time, the studio also released the Crusader, via the Reaper of Souls expansion, and the Necromancer, in the Rise of the Necromancer mini-expansion.
Diablo 2‘s choices included the Amazon, Barbarian, Necromancer, Paladin, and Sorceress. With the Assassin and Druid releasing via post-launch content.
Do you see a trend? The character classes repeat throughout the years, with some slight variation to their skill lines and naming schemes. The Assassin of Diablo 2 is essentially the Rogue of Diablo IV, and the Barbarian is the Barbarian through and through.
Post-Launch Classes in Diablo IV?
Will we see new classes introduced to Diablo IV after its release? Most likely, yes. But for now, it’s anyone’s guess whether Blizzard plans significant content updates beyond their three-month seasonal approach.
We can speculate that, in time, we may receive a few old-school classes, like the Paladin or Crusader, as both fit the darker theme of Diablo IV quite well. Furthermore, it would surprise likely no one to see the Monk return, as she was a fan-favorite in the past two games—Diablo 3 and Diablo Immortal.
As for brand-new classes to the series, it would be fascinating to see a style that revolves around the angelic powers of some such. Players already delve into the light with celestial beings, like Inarius, throughout the game’s story, so a class dealing with light magic?
Furthermore, while not typical of the frantic action style of Diablo as a whole, a class with healing abilities may suit the more multiplayer-centric playstyle of the new game, with parties and clans playing a more prominent role this time around.
With the grand scope of Diablo IV, there’s much room for expansion and improvement, especially in the extensive character creator and class possibilities. Plus, it gives Blizzard more room to sell cosmetic skins, a guaranteed win in their book.
What class archetypes would you like to see in Diablo IV post-release? Let us know in the comments below!