Diablo 4 will offer unprecedented character and skill tree customization, according to a recent interview with Blizzard Game Director Joe Shely and General Manager Rod Fergusson. Customization and class recognition have always been a big part of the Diablo game, and while Diablo 3 eventually moved beyond its own progression system after a major content update, its sequel aims to the target runs around it.While Blizzard has yet to announce a definite release date for Diablo 4 at this point, the game has a 2023 release date and rumors say it could launch around April. With more specifics on the release pending, Diablo 4's developers are still eager to share tidbits about its gameplay, and they did so in a recent interview with IGN.As the Diablo 4 beta endgame leaks have suggested, the game will feature a tremendous amount of variety and customization. According to Shely and Fergusson, players can expect a comprehensive skill tree system that allows them to use the new keyword search function to filter skills and abilities that match their particular build. Both skills and passives will be available, and the system is very reminiscent of complicated ARPGs like Grim Dawn or Path of Exile, further underscoring Blizzard's dedication to making Diablo 4 fun and enjoyable and as attractive as possible to construction players. Specifically, while Diablo 3 builds are gear dependent, Diablo 4 will instead be closer to Diablo 2's much more important skill tree.At the same time, Diablo 4's skill development will be less linear than Diablo 2's, Shely and Fergusson said. They also note that redefining the spec will be easier than ever to access, but the higher the character's level, the higher the cost of the feature. Experimentation is encouraged at lower levels, and Blizzard hopes that this approach can make players more engaged with their characters in the long run. This also suggests that Diablo 4's seasonal content may have its own alternate progression modes that won't completely reset the player's favorite builds and characters.Diablo 4 has had a number of leaks recently, many of which suggest Blizzard is on the right track when it comes to the game's longevity and hardcore player appeal. Beta testers also seem to have had mostly positive experiences with test builds of the game, which is a great sign for fans of Blizzard's flagship franchise.While nothing has been said about the Horadric Cube in Diablo 4, it's entirely possible that the diablo 4 items will also return with some abilities. The statement from Blizzard's developers suggests that the studio is primarily looking back at Diablo 2 to see what worked and what didn't, and the legendary transforming artifact has certainly stuck with players for years.
