Diablo 5 will introduce a new class called the Plague Knight, described as "walking death" by game director Joe Shely. This heavily armored character spreads diseases on the battlefield and consumes them to gain buffs, a concept distinct from previous Diablo titles. The confirmation came during a post-reveal panel at BlizzCon 2026, where Blizzard also announced that the Monk and Demon Hunter classes will be available at launch. The studio indicated that Diablo 5 will feature more classes at launch than its predecessors, with hints of additional new classes beyond the Plague Knight.
A Decimated Sanctuary and Caravan Travel
The narrative of Diablo 5 is set in a world completely decimated by Diablo himself, who will be a fully realized character. This post-apocalyptic setting shifts the game's structure away from traditional town hubs and questgivers. Instead, players will progress by traveling with a slowly growing caravan throughout their adventure. This mobile base will feature key figures like a blacksmith, who will offer side quests and develop into an engaging character. Notably, a Treasure Goblin will also join the caravan, offering a unique twist on a familiar franchise enemy.
The world and its dungeons will feature procedural generation, a staple of the Diablo series, though its implementation in this new context remains to be seen. Diablo 5 is slated for release in Spring 2029.
