Diablo 4’s new endgame content, the Dark Citadel, is proving to be a bit divisive in terms of its MMO model.
Diablo 4’s Vessel of Hatred expansion is a firm statement that Blizzard is and will keep updating the game in the next few years. The DLC addresses some pain points from D4’s rocky history from launch until now, such as more build variety for all classes, with Diablo 4 classes getting new active and passive skills to give players more options. This is a good direction for the game, and it’s something that Blizzard is likely to keep doing over time, most likely for all the elements of the ARPG to improve on each of its pillars. Most recently, Vessel of Hatred gave a new spin to Diablo 4’s multiplayer aspect with the Dark Citadel raid.
The fact that Dark Citadel as an activity was even shipped is a good indication that the MMO part of Diablo 4 may not be going anywhere, for better or for worse. Action RPGs and looter games featuring multiplayer elements are not uncommon, but it can be frowned upon by the community and fans of the genre to have some gear pieces locked behind these activities. Destiny 2 is a good example of this, and Diablo 4 is following in its footsteps with the Dark Citadel.
