A modder has brought Diablo 2: Resurrected into virtual reality, transforming the isometric action RPG into a first-person VR game. The modder, known as fantasticauthor2736 on Reddit, utilized existing tools such as the D2R-3D mod, FlatVR, and BodyWalk to achieve this feat. While the mod is not yet publicly released, videos demonstrate its gameplay potential, showcasing combat and a redesigned user interface.
The UI has been adapted for VR, with the inventory moved to the belt and other elements relocated to the left wrist for easy access to health, mana, and the action toolbar. The map is summoned as an orb held in the player's hand, a departure from the standard overlay map.
The foundation for this VR mod is the D2R-3D project by emmericp, which already demonstrated that Diablo 2's assets inherently support a 3D perspective. Rendering these assets from a first-person viewpoint requires significant adjustments to calculations for projectiles, lighting, and shadows. However, this modding process introduces bugs, such as floating item names and non-functional mouse and keyboard targeting.
A significant challenge stems from the D2R-3D mod triggering Blizzard's file integrity checker, causing the game to crash after approximately one minute. While a workaround exists, it involves potentially risky software that could facilitate cheating, leading the modder to withhold details. Fantasticauthor2736's VR mod is expected to inherit these same limitations.
Despite these technical constraints, the VR mod represents a notable achievement in community-driven game enhancement. This development arrives as Blizzard prepares for Diablo 5, with Game Director Joe Shely promising a return to the methodical gameplay that defined Diablo 2. Game industry figures, including Path of Exile's Chris Wilson, have expressed optimism that Diablo 5 will draw further inspiration from the beloved sequel.