One iconic feature of theDiablofranchise is not returning toDiablo 4, as Blizzard Entertainment reveals that item sets will only make their way to the hack-and-slash sequel in a post-launch update. Back in the younger days ofDiablo 2, many fans can relate to the excitement they felt upon seeing that first glimmer of green text grace their screen. It didn’t matter if it dropped from a boss or a random treasure chest, they knew they had something special in their hands, and a quick trip to Deckard Cain revealed that they just got their first setitem inDiablo 2. Be it Sigon, Berserker, or Cleglaw, they knew they had to find the rest.
Naturally, eachclass inDiablo 2had their own ultimate set to complete, and often the quickest way to creating a competent endgame build relied on having these sets. This concept was taken even further inDiablo 3, as now players had several endgame sets per class to enhance their build far beyond its normal capabilities. While many players would argue that including set items inDiablo 4is a no-brainer, the situation is a bit more complex than the first glance would imply.
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In a roundtable interview withDiablo 4’s Game Director Joe Shely, it was revealed that set items would not be making the game’s June release date. Shely explained that the reason whyDiablo 4would omit set items at launch was simply a matter of getting them right. Much likeDiablo 3evolved the way set items fit into the endgame, Joe Shely hopes thatDiablo 4’s set items will do the same.
While this bit of news comes as a disappointment to manyDiabloplayers, it is important to consider the unique opportunity it presents for the game. Theconcept forDiablo 4’s Codex of Powertakes the strength of legendary items fromDiablo 3and presents them with a newfound flexibility that allows players to create truly unique builds. This system should be allowed to exist without the overwhelming convenience of set items if it to find its footing inDiablo 4’s endgame.
Ultimately, fans will be able to test out the game systems whenDiablo 4’s open betastarts in the coming months. While players were expecting to get their hands on the game sooner than the current projections, it is rumored that Blizzard Entertainment will reveal concrete information about the next beta testing stage at the IGN Fan Fest 2023 event on February 17.
Diablo 4releases June 6 on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
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