Diablo 2: Resurrected Review - A Beautifully Produced Remaster with Age-Related Issues

The highly anticipated Diablo 2: Resurrected has finally arrived, and it's a beautifully produced remaster of the classic action RPG. Developed by Vicarious Visions, the game is now available on PC, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, and Switch.

As I dived into the world of Sanctuary, I couldn't help but notice the attention to detail in the remastering process. The visuals are stunning, with crisp textures and vibrant colors that bring the game's dark fantasy setting to life. The sound design is equally impressive, with haunting music and eerie sound effects that immerse you in the game's world.

But despite its polished presentation, Diablo 2: Resurrected is showing its age. The gameplay still has an ornery magnetism that draws you in, but the lack of innovation or significant changes to the formula can make it feel like a relic from the past. The game's mechanics and design are starting to show signs of wear and tear, making it difficult for new players to jump in without feeling overwhelmed.

As Blizzard Entertainment's first major release since the state of California filed suit against the studio, Diablo 2: Resurrected is also raising questions about separating the art from the artist. The recent revelations about Blizzard's 'frat boy' culture have sparked a heated debate about whether it's possible to enjoy their games without condoning the behavior. While it's understandable that some players may choose to boycott Blizzard games, others may still be able to appreciate the craft and skill that goes into creating them.

Ultimately, Diablo 2: Resurrected is a testament to the power of remastering. It shows that even older games can be updated and rejuvenated for new audiences, as long as they're done with care and attention to detail. However, it also serves as a reminder that even the most beautifully produced remasters can't mask the fact that some games are simply showing their age.

Diablo 2: resurrected metacritic