GameSpot's Diablo II Preview

Developer:
Blizzard North

Publisher:
Blizzard

Target Release Date:
Q4 1999
Don't miss the other parts of our three-part preview. Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
By Elliott Chin

Page 1 of 7

Recently, we were invited to the offices of Blizzard North to see the latest build of Diablo II. The beta test is just around the corner, so the team was trying to finalize the build for the beta. That meant it was a good time to go visit the team and play the nearly complete first act. We also took a sneak peek at the other two acts, which aren't as complete but are looking very good.

screenshot
Diablo II is looking good
A lot has changed in Diablo II since we last reported on it in our news section following E3 in May. Since that time, Blizzard North has tweaked the interface, implemented more quests and NPCs, and refined the gameplay. Some battle.net features were also added. After spending a whole day with the game, we're pretty confident that the same amazing combination of simplicity and replayability will return in this sequel and be bolstered by some much-needed depth.

There is a lot to talk about with regard to Diablo II, so we're splitting up our preview. This week, we'll talk about the game in general, including the interface, gameplay mechanics, the new map, as well as some multiplayer features. Then next week, we'll go over the three acts, revealing quests, NPCs, and monsters. The following week, we'll detail the five characters, and then the next week, we'll provide you with a comprehensive beta report, because by that time, the beta will have been in full test.

So let's look at how Diablo II is shaping up.

Next: A little story