Initially envisioned as a radically different experience, Diablo IV's early development saw it conceived as a more action-oriented, roguelite title with a distinct design philosophy. This revelation comes from Diablo III director Josh Mosqueira.

Diablo IV's Near-Miss: A Roguelike Action-Adventure

According to Josh Mosqueira, Diablo IV's development almost took a dramatically different path. Instead of the familiar action-RPG formula, the team initially explored a concept resembling a Batman: Arkham game, incorporating roguelike elements.

This detail emerges from Jason Schreier's book, Play Nice: The Rise and Fall of Blizzard Entertainment, as highlighted by WIRED. The account sheds light on the Diablo team's post-Diablo III reflections, with Mosqueira aiming for a significant departure from the perceived shortcomings of its predecessor.

Under the codename "Hades," a small group envisioned a Diablo IV with a third-person perspective, replacing the series' iconic isometric view. Combat would be faster-paced and more impactful, similar to the Batman: Arkham games. Crucially, the game would feature permadeath, significantly altering the core gameplay loop.

While Blizzard executives initially supported this bold experiment, several challenges emerged. The ambitious co-op multiplayer aspects proved particularly problematic, leading to internal questioning of the game's identity. Designer Julian Love reportedly commented on the significant deviations from established Diablo conventions, questioning whether it remained a true Diablo game. Concerns also arose that "Hades" was evolving into a completely new IP.

Diablo IV recently launched its first major expansion, "Vessel of Hatred." Set in 1336, this DLC plunges players into the machinations of Mephisto and his sinister plans for Sanctuary. [Link to Diablo IV DLC review would go here].