The highly anticipated Season of the Malignant marks a significant milestone for Diablo 4 as it introduces the game’s first-ever season. Alongside an engaging new narrative questline that continues the storyline after the campaign, the season also unveils a major new mechanic, a formidable boss encounter, fresh items, and more thrilling content for players to explore.
One noteworthy addition in Season of the Malignant is the introduction of the game’s first battle pass, a mechanic that has sparked considerable interest and curiosity among the player base.
After addressing the controversy surrounding the requirement of creating new characters for seasonal content, the focus has shifted to how Blizzard plans to structure the battle pass and the expected progression pace for players.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: Blizzard’s Commitment
Blizzard has made it clear that it aims to ensure all players, regardless of playstyle, have a fair chance to unlock all tiers of the battle pass. The developer has emphasized its dedication to accommodating both casual and dedicated players throughout the 12-week season, allowing everyone to experience its offerings without feeling overwhelmed.
Given the demanding grind that Diablo 4 entails after reaching level 50, many players expressed concerns about the battle pass requiring a similar level of dedication. However, the good news is that unlocking every item on the battle pass will not require anywhere near that amount of time and effort.
In an interview with Forbes, game director Joe Shely confirmed that it is not necessary to be at or near level 100 to complete the battle pass before the season concludes. Furthermore, the absence of time-gated content allows players to progress at their own pace, ensuring a more enjoyable and achievable experience.
Shely reassured players by stating, “We want to make sure that players playing at varying intensities can still complete the battle pass.” According to the director, dedicating a few hours per week to Diablo 4 should be sufficient to earn all the rewards and tiers offered by the battle pass.
Preparations for the Upcoming Season
As the Season of the Malignant approaches its in-game launch on July 20, players currently engaged in Diablo 4 should consider a few essential steps to maximize their progress and boost their power before the season begins. To kickstart the anticipated grind, a major patch will be deployed on July 18, setting the stage for the upcoming season’s thrilling adventures.
Diablo 4 enthusiasts can look forward to a season that provides a balanced and accessible progression system, allowing players of all styles to embark on a rewarding journey through the dark and treacherous world of Sanctuary. With the battle pass structure and pace designed to accommodate varying intensities of play, the Season of the Malignant promises an enjoyable and fulfilling experience for all players.
