Blizzard plans gameplay shift for Diablo V amid release concerns

Blizzard Entertainment is reportedly planning a significant shift in gameplay direction for Diablo V, aiming to return to the series' roots. Director Joe Shely has indicated a move toward a philosophy more similar to Diablo 2, prioritizing character builds, equipment, and skill combinations over the high-action, reflex-based combat seen in Diablo 4.

This potential shift includes a focus on strategic preparation and may reintroduce classic elements, such as more restrictive inventory management, to increase the weight of player decisions.

However, industry experts have raised concerns regarding the project's timeline. Chris Wilson, co-founder of Path of Exile, suggested that a Spring 2029 release might be overly ambitious given the massive scope required for a modern action RPG. Wilson noted that the development window appears tight and expressed his personal view that 'the game will not be finished in time' for that window.