Diablo 2 is one of the most influential games ever made. Evolving on the basic formulae created in Diablo 1, it introduced many concepts that are now considered genre staples: skill trees, socketed items, champion packs and the stash. Not only have countless games just like it come in its wake - every single element of this game has been spun off into other genres. MMOs take from Diablo 2. FPS games take from Diablo 2. Its tendrils writhe deep into the flesh of the gaming landscape, even today.
But for all of its influence, is it still worth playing the original? If every aspect of what makes this game has been evolved upon, not just in its own genre, but in others, can the humble original still be worth playing over everything that has come out since?
We are joined by special guest Shane Koski of the Retro Hangover Podcast to delve deep into exactly what it is that makes Diablo 2 tick - and whether, at the end of it, it is worth playing an ARPG that is over 20 years old.
On this episode, we discuss:
- How well has the action component of Diablo 2 held up? Is running, evading enemy fire, using abilities and potion chugging still the frantic and fun experience it was back in 2000?
- Do Diablo 2’s skill trees offer a good level of customisation and creativity in its character builds? To what degree must you rely on external research when forging a character?
- Does Diablo 2’s itemisation hold up in the face of modern takes like Diablo 3 and Path of Exile? Does a flatter power curve (rune words aside) lead to a more engaging game, or one where power ups are hardly noticeable?
We answer these questions and many more on the 84th episode of the Retro Spectives Podcast!
—
Intro Music: KieLoBot - Tanzen K
Outro Music: Rockit Maxx - One point to another
Diablo 2 OST: Matt Uelmen
We had yet another excellent guest on the show - Shane Koski of the Retro Hangover Podcast! They do deep dive critiques of video games that are at least 10 years old, and they have some fantastic stuff - I highly recommend checking out their Tomb Raider and Parasite Eve episodes. You can also join their discord community here to join the conversation.
—
The Hidden Cost of Optimisation
—
What is it exactly about Diablo 2 that makes people enjoy it more than any other ARPG? Are Rune Words really as bad as we say, or do they overall add to the experience? Did you have a similar experience to us on Diablo 3 launch day? Come let us know what you think on our community discord server!