Blizzard Entertainment returned to The Game Awards with a reveal that pushes Diablo IV’s dark fantasy saga into its most dangerous phase yet. Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred, the game’s second major expansion, sets the stage for a direct reckoning with Mephisto and marks the turning point of the Age of Hatred storyline.
The expansion goes far beyond narrative continuation. Lord of Hatred expands Diablo IV with a new campaign, major systemic changes, two new playable classes, and a previously unseen region of Sanctuary. Players will journey to Skovos, a volatile land of volcanic coastlines, rain-soaked forests, forgotten temples, and ocean-worn ruins; the birthplace of Sanctuary’s first civilization and the former home of Lilith and Inarius.
The biggest immediate addition is playable right now. Players who pre-purchase the expansion can step into the Paladin class today. Wielding hammer, shield, and divine Light, the Paladin returns with iconic abilities such as Blessed Hammer, Auras, Zeal, and Heaven’s Fury, alongside holy transformations including the Judge form. A second, darker class has also been confirmed and will arrive alongside the expansion’s full launch.
Blizzard confirmed that Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred launches on April 28, 2026. With it comes the most extensive gameplay overhaul since Diablo IV’s release.
Gameplay Updates
Lord of Hatred introduces sweeping mechanical changes designed to reshape both progression and endgame:
- A redesigned skill tree with expanded paths and new class-defining variants
- A Loot Filter system enabling targeted farming and cleaner drops
- The return of the Horadric Cube, bringing deeper crafting and item experimentation
- A powerful new Talisman system that grants set bonuses
- Player-driven Battle Plans that shape individual endgame progression
- Echoing Hatred, an endless gauntlet of demonic armies built as the ultimate skill test
- A quieter diversion amid the chaos: fishing, now available across Sanctuary’s dangerous waterways
All editions of Lord of Hatred include instant access to the first expansion, Vessel of Hatred, unlocking the Spiritborn class, Mercenaries, and the wild region of Nahantu. Deluxe and Ultimate editions add mounts, pets, armor sets, cosmetics, Platinum, and additional bonuses.
Blizzard also announced the Diablo IV: Age of Hatred Collection, bundling the base game with both expansions for new players. With eight playable classes (including Paladin and Spiritborn) full cross-play, and cross-progression, Sanctuary’s darkest era is about to begin.
Stay tuned to VGNW and follow us on X for deeper breakdowns, class analysis, and endgame coverage and share your thoughts on Diablo IV’s boldest expansion yet.
When will Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred be released?
Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred is set to launch on April 28, 2026.
What new gameplay features are coming with Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred?
The expansion introduces a redesigned skill tree, loot filters, the Horadric Cube, a talisman-based set system, player-driven endgame Battle Plans, Echoing Hatred endgame mode, and fishing.
What is the Diablo IV: Age of Hatred Collection?
The Age of Hatred Collection bundles the base game with both expansions, offering access to eight playable classes, including Paladin and Spiritborn, along with full cross-play and cross-progression support.
