I’ve just started to play Diablo IV, and whilst it’s not technically my first Diablo game in the series, I have to be honest that I’ve been largely clueless about what’s going on. I’m not even really sure what genre of game I’d describe it as, which is tough as I’m hoping to review it here at ninjarefinery.com in the next month or so.
As it stands, I’m getting into Diablo IV and the story, but I’m learning what’s happening in the latest version of the series. I haven’t any understanding of what’s come before, nor what’s happening moving forwards.
So, I took it upon myself to get acquainted with Sanctuary and all the demons I’m now mowing down with glee. It’s not exhaustive, but I think we’ve got a great beginners guide to the series here. Have a read and get caught-up!
Diablo (1996)
The one that started it all, all the way back in 1996!
The original Diablo introduced players to the world of Sanctuary, a realm besieged by demonic forces.
The story begins with the player arriving in the town of Tristram, where a sinister darkness has descended upon the nearby cathedral. As the player delves deeper into the cathedral, they uncover a plot to resurrect the Lord of Terror, Diablo himself.
The game’s dungeon-crawling gameplay and atmospheric setting set the stage for the series’ iconic blend of action and horror.
Diablo II (2000)
Diablo II expanded upon the series’ lore, introducing new demonic lords and exploring the history of Sanctuary.
The game revealed that the world had been created by the Nephilim, a hybrid race of angels and demons. The Nephilim were eventually destroyed, but their essence remained, influencing the events of the series.
We, the player, once again drawn into the conflict, must face off against the Prime Evils, Baal, Mephisto, and Diablo.
The game featured a more expansive world, improved gameplay mechanics, and a variety of character classes, including the Amazon, Barbarian, Sorceress, Paladin, and Necromancer. A true step-forward for the series, and arguably the biggest/most beloved.
Diablo III (2012)
Diablo III delved deeper into the lore of the series. Exploring the concept of the Worldstone, a powerful artifact that sustains Sanctuary.
Diablo III revealed that the Worldstone had been corrupted by the Prime Evils. This lead to a cataclysmic event known as the Sundering. The player, a Nephalem, must journey through Sanctuary to destroy the corrupted Worldstone. Then, to prevent the demons from gaining control of the realm.
The game featured a more streamlined combat system, a vibrant and coluorful art style, and a focus on cooperative gameplay.
Diablo IV (2023)
Diablo IV continues the story of Sanctuary, taking place several decades after the events of Diablo III. The game introduces Lilith, the Daughter of Rathma, as the primary antagonist.
Lilith seeks to reshape Sanctuary in her image. So the player must once again stand against the forces of Hell to protect the realm.
The game features a more open-world approach, allowing players to explore vast regions of Sanctuary. It also introduces a new class, the Druid, who can transform into various animal forms.