Diablo 5 senior game director says 'the continued passion' is the reason Diablo 2: Resurrected exists and has allowed Blizzard to look at it for modern inspiration — 'Because it exists today alongside Diablo 4, we can look at it through today's lens'

Diablo 5 senior game director Joe Shely revealed that the team's ability to draw inspiration from Diablo 2: Resurrected is due to its recent release. Speaking at BlizzCon, Shely stated that the game's success allows the developers to examine it through today's lens, rather than relying solely on the classic Diablo 2. The passion of the playerbase for the remastered version has been a significant factor in the game's continued existence, providing the developers with a wealth of ideas for Diablo 5.

Shely highlighted the itemization system, weapons, loot, and armor as key features that inspired the team. The inclusion of modern features in Diablo 2: Resurrected also played a crucial role, as the game is so recent that the developers can learn from its contemporary approach. With Diablo 2: Resurrected existing alongside Diablo 4, the developers can now incorporate lessons from both the classic game and the modern version, providing a more comprehensive source of inspiration for Diablo 5. Diablo 5 is set to launch in Spring 2029.