‘Diablo 2: Resurrected’ 2022 update to bring substantial class balance changes after 11 years

Blizzard revealed initial details to the next major update coming to “Diablo 2: Resurrected.” But the upcoming patch should be more meaningful, especially to long-time players, as it will be the first time in 11 years that developers are bringing important class balance changes.

“Diablo 2: Resurrected” players are waiting for the full release of patch 2.4. While the update’s launch schedule is still unknown, the developers offered some insights on what improvements and changes to expect to balance class skills.

In a blog post on Wednesday, Blizzard noted that the class balance changes in patch 2.4 would be the first of its kind since the developer introduced similar updates to the original “Diablo 2” in patch 1.13c, which was introduced in March 2010.

For the Amazon class, Blizzard is looking to improve its melee skills by introducing buffs to moves like Impale and Fend, which the developer deems is not used as much at its current state. There are planned improvements to some skills in the Bow and Crossbow tree as well, so they can be further utilized in higher-difficulty games.

“Diablo 2: Resurrected” fans can also look forward to changes in how Combo Points are generated and used for the Assassin’s Martial Arts skills. Blizzard also noted that the class’ Trap skills are underutilized, so it could be another aspect where changes will be applied.

The Barbarian’s Combat skills like Leap Attack and Grim Ward will be diversified, while Double Throw and Throwing Mastery skills will be improved to encourage players in using Throwing Barbarians more. Several changes are also being considered for the Druid class, including improvements to Physical Damage and Casting Delays for Fire skills. Druid’s Summons could also be overhauled in the upcoming “Diablo 2: Resurrected” patch as the developer reviews their health gains per level and damage level.

Necromancer’s Skeletal Mages’ elemental damage level will be balanced, along with enhancements to Golems. The “Diablo 2: Resurrected” developers are also considering improving Paladin skills like Fist of Heavens in the hopes that more players will use them later on. Blizzard is also reviewing some Fire skills of the Sorceress, along with possible changes in player controls for the Inferno skill.

Blizzard will discuss the upcoming “Diablo 2: Resurrected” patch more in a Twitch livestream on Thursday, Dec. 16, at 11 a.m. PST on MrLlamaSC’s channel. While the release date for patch 2.4 is still unknown, it is planned to enter the Public Test Realm (PTR) in early 2022.