When designing a new class for a highly anticipated game like Diablo 4, the process can be both exhilarating and challenging. Class designer Bjorn Mikkelson reveals that it was “freeing” to experiment with new ideas for the upcoming Spiritborn class. With over 60 prototyped skills to choose from, the design team had the opportunity to explore unique and innovative concepts.
While not every skill that was tested made it into the final game, Mikkelson remains optimistic that some of the team’s favorite abilities could potentially make a return in the future. The development of the Spiritborn class was described as a fun and liberating experience, allowing the designers to push boundaries and think outside the box. This willingness to try “crazy stuff” speaks to the creative freedom that the team enjoyed.
One intriguing aspect of the Spiritborn class is its connection to the power of the centipede. Mikkelson explains that this provided the team with the opportunity to explore unusual and unconventional ideas. By incorporating elements like fear and martial arts-style blocking into the class’s abilities, Diablo 4 is able to offer a fresh and dynamic gameplay experience.
One of the key changes introduced with the Spiritborn class is a new approach to blocking. Instead of relying solely on shields for defense, the Vessel of Hatred class employs a more active and engaging form of blocking using hands. This shift towards a more dynamic style of defense adds a layer of complexity to combat encounters, creating a more immersive and strategic gameplay experience.
Fans of Diablo 4 can look forward to the release of the Spiritborn class as part of the upcoming DLC, Vessel of Hatred, set to launch on October 9th. With the promise of new skills, abilities, and gameplay mechanics, players can expect to dive into a world where creativity and experimentation are at the forefront of class design. The Spiritborn represents a fresh and exciting chapter in the ongoing evolution of Diablo 4.
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