Someone at Blizzard probably didn’t mean to name a build “2.5.Xpaladin.67961,” but that’s exactly what showed up on one of the Diablo 4 servers recently. It’s a pretty obvious nod to the Paladin class, which players have been asking for since the game’s release. The timing is curious, too. This build went out just as some influencers arrived at Blizzard’s HQ to test upcoming changes, which might include this new class.
Blizzard often updates internal versions of its games that aren’t public but can be spotted through certain APIs. According to a version, “Paladin” could mean the class is being tested internally, possibly for a release in a future update or expansion. The “2.5” in the build name suggests this might be planned for a patch a couple of seasons from now, not immediately.
While the next expansion should be version 3.0, Blizzard is likely using the most stable build available for testing rather than releasing the class early. For example, the Spiritborn class is only accessible if you buy the Vessel of Hatred expansion, and that model probably won’t change for the Paladin.
Paladins have a strong history in the Diablo series. They first appeared in Diablo 2, skipped the initial Diablo 3 release, but came back in its Reaper of Souls expansion, and were part of Diablo Immortal’s original lineup. Diablo 4 includes shields, but has lacked a Paladin class, which disappointed many players hoping to wield holy powers against demons again.
Could this accidental naming be a sign that the Paladin is finally returning? It sure feels like it might be. I wonder how the class will fit into Diablo 4’s current systems and what new abilities it could bring. Yikes, I’m already curious to see how Blizzard will handle it.
Feel free to share your thoughts or theories about this possible reveal in the comments below.
