Hello,
I was writing to describe my recent experience with Diablo 4, and possible suggestions for the game going forward.
I have a level 80 Rogue on a seasonal realm, and a level 57 Druid on eternal (which I completed the campaign with.) Overall, I think that the game is of high quality; the graphics, story and gameplay are all fairly solid, however I do think the game can improve in several aspects. Primarily examining the end game for characters and players I think that there are many areas where the game could expand upon. Once a player beats the campaign the end game is what remains. So far the end game includes Helltide, Nightmare Dungeons, Tree of Whispers, Legion Events and World Bosses along with remaining side quests. I think many people were looking for “that game” that they could play for long periods of time with their friends, to include titles such as World of Warcraft which is one of the best games of all time. I do think that the endgame falls short of something with much more longevity at the time being. That said, the events mentioned prior do substantiate for some short-term value as they are a bit exciting at first as their value fades with prolonged use. So much repetition, and so much grind that is involved in leveling and participating in events after one completes the campaign can become very repetitive and very boring. This in part can be due to the core gameplay, which is distinctly Diablo, but has a few faults in design. I think with D4 the ARPG formula is crafted in the most excellent manner. Naturally once one levels and acquires gear, being able to blow up mobs instantly with little effort will make the game feel boring, while there are thresholds that will appear challenging while leveling, the gameplay is grind focused rather than skill based making it redundant to a point. I will compliment that the items, customization and builds are all exceptional, with lots of cool armor and weapons and viable skills or builds. Even with this, certain builds will far excel other builds to exploit the game in some instances. Many of the dungeons and open world in Sanctuary are designed well with lots of graphical detail and spatial elements in mind. While there are lots of different types of enemies, I think that adding more variety here could also be beneficial as some of the character models are overused in some cases. I think that the open world of the game is fantastic, and many of side quests whether it being more story intensive, gathering items, or fetch quests are still decent and fully fledged out. People could argue that the main storyline could have been more involved and interactive rather than chasing after Lilith most of the campaign. (Having access to the mount earlier on in the game, say at level 20 would be better for players traversing Sanctuary.) Some things that I think would increase the longevity of the endgame, without drastically altering the core gameplay, would be to add more fulfilling activities and events to the game. If you look at other games, such as MOBAS or Battle Royales, they have games that last anywhere between 30 minutes – to 1 hour that have complexity and enough variety that makes them repeatable and fun. I think Diablo is indeed capable of creating such a game mode. In doing so this would increase the players interested in coming back to the game time and time again. Adding more endgame will be enthusiastically good for many players, and in the case, that Diablo is at it is while it evolves over time, then it is fine to have a game like this, but one can’t expect people to have as much longevity with it. And to comment about the seasonal realms, I think that it is a large demand to ask players to create an entirely new character, especially when the game hasn’t even been out for a few months. While some players may be partial to making new characters, there should be some sort of battle pass support for eternal players as well. The game lacks a real PVP battleground that would add much value to the overall experience. Fields of hatred is mediocre at best, as there is no cushion for players at different levels and isn’t much more than a bit of farm mixed with dueling another opponent or group. PVP modes would make the game more enjoyable. The game itself needs more dimensional depth. Even siphoning from Diablo Immortal, things like rifts or rift bosses were stable to create an inclusive environment for players. The addition of being able to save skills, paragon boards, and items for builds and swap them on the go would be convenient, similar to that of Diablo Immortal. The party up system was seamless and efficient in making teams of players that could achieve objectives. I hope that the game can be improved upon especially for the endgame. This is the best Diablo I have played, with the vibes, graphics and more grim feeling it is spectacular, but I think many aspects could added upon or further improved. Also shop item prices should be reduced considering the many types of creators and cosmetics that could be added to the game. What’s up with no feasible vendors for buying items, right?? Cheers on demon slaying and looking forward to new updates as the game progresses. Thank you,