Diablo 5 Game Director Joe Shely has stated that the upcoming title will feature a more methodical approach to gameplay, emphasizing strategic character building over rapid-fire combat. This shift aims to recapture the spirit of earlier entries in the series, particularly Diablo 2, which is often lauded for its deep itemization and build diversity.
Shely announced on Twitter that while Diablo 5 will retain some fast-paced "DEX (moment-to-moment execution) mechanics," the game will predominantly be an "INT/STR game (planning and investment)." He further assured players that "any challenge can be overcome with the right build," a core tenet of the action RPG genre.
The announcement follows discussions surrounding the series' direction, with many hoping for a departure from the more modern design philosophies seen in Diablo 3 and Diablo 4. However, the community's reaction has been largely skeptical. On Reddit, players expressed doubt, with one user remarking that similar promises have been made before. Concerns were raised that modern ARPGs tend to trend towards faster gameplay, and that developers might revert to quicker combat loops if faced with player feedback demanding immediate gratification.
Conversely, some reactions on Twitter have been more optimistic. One user expressed excitement for the opportunity to explore a different direction from Diablo 3 and 4, hoping for a focus on deeper itemization and skill systems. This sentiment aligns with Shely's stated goals for Diablo 5.
While the developer aims for a more methodical experience, the article notes that Diablo 4 will continue to receive new seasons after Diablo 5's launch, offering players an alternative if they prefer its current gameplay style.