Diablo 30th Anniversary: New Warlock Class, Major Updates, and 2026 Plans

Blizzard celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Diablo series with a special online event, part of the larger Blizzard Showcase 2026. The developers went beyond nostalgia: viewers were introduced to the new Warlock class, updates for Diablo II: Resurrected, details about the upcoming Diablo IV expansion, and the 2026 roadmap for Diablo Immortal.

The anniversary turned out to be more than a celebration — it set the direction for the franchise’s development in the years ahead.

New Warlock Class — The Highlight of the Anniversary

The central news of the show was the Warlock, the first fully new class added simultaneously to all three key games in the series. This is a rare event for Diablo, where new classes usually appear only in major expansions.

The Warlock is a master of summoning and demonic contracts. Its main features include summoning various types of demons, binding and controlling enemies, absorbing souls and enemy power, and combining abilities through the “Soul Devourer” mechanic. Gameplay revolves around controlling the battlefield through minions and manipulating soul energy. It is a hybrid class, combining elements of a necromancer, spellcaster, and tactical controller.

Warlock in Diablo II: Resurrected

In Diablo II: Resurrected, the class is already available in the Reign of the Warlock update. This is the first new class in D2 in 25 years — a historic event for a game with a cult status.

In addition to Warlock, the update introduced new high-difficulty areas called Terror Zones, where battles are more intense and strategically challenging. New enemies, Heralds of Terror, and a new boss, Colossal Ancients, were added, providing a serious challenge even for experienced players. The update also improves quality of life with loot filters, an event journal, and better chest organization, making inventory management and game progression more convenient. The Warlock is seamlessly integrated into the lore of Sanctuary, maintaining the dark atmosphere of the original Diablo II.

Diablo IV: Skovos Region and Lord of Hatred Expansion

For Diablo IV, developers revealed parts of the upcoming Lord of Hatred expansion. The new region, Skovos, is inspired by Mediterranean islands — rocky coasts, ancient ruins, temples, and coastal fortresses. In true Diablo style, these areas are infused with darkness, cultists, and demonic threats.

The Warlock will play a key role in the story, opposing the Paladin and creating an ideological conflict between light and dark. Expanded skill trees, the War Plans endgame system, and new talismans that enhance builds were also announced. War Plans add a strategic layer to character progression in the endgame, allowing players to choose directions for campaigns and activities.

Diablo Immortal: 2026 Plans

Diablo Immortal will receive a major content update in 2026. Players will return to Lut Gholein in a reimagined form, explore a new story chapter, and encounter new zones and threats based on Sanctuary’s legends. The Warlock class will also be added in the summer of 2026, with its own backstory and summoning mechanics adapted for mobile gameplay. Seasonal events and anniversary activities are planned to engage players throughout the year.

Anniversary Bonuses and Rewards

Blizzard prepared gifts for all event participants. Players received a promo code with in-game rewards, including legendary items, gold, and up to 10 Legendary Crests for Diablo Immortal. This serves as a festive bonus for both veterans and new players, adding excitement and motivation to continue playing.

Diablo and Blizzard Anniversaries

The anniversary event was part of the larger Blizzard Showcase 2026, celebrating 30 years of Diablo and 35 years of Blizzard Entertainment. Developers showcased archival development footage, interviews with veteran team members, and the evolution of the series from the isometric action RPG of 1996 to today’s modern service-based RPGs.

The Future of Diablo

The main highlight is undoubtedly the Warlock, uniting all three active games in the series and creating a sense of cohesive franchise development. Diablo II: Resurrected receives a historic update, Diablo IV is preparing for a major expansion, and Diablo Immortal expands its story and class systems.

Blizzard demonstrated that Diablo is not just a legacy of the past but a continuously evolving ecosystem. The 30th anniversary became not only a moment to reflect on history but also the beginning of a new era for Sanctuary.