As Diablo 4 Season 1, named “Season of the Malignant,” is about to kick off on July 20, players across Sanctuary are bracing for an onslaught of virulent threats and corrupt monsters. Announced today, July 6, 2023, Blizzard promises a deluge of new content ranging from innovative gameplay mechanics to powerful, fresh gear. This article delves into what lies in store for Diablo 4’s wanderers.
A monstrous wave of corruption grips sanctuary, and players are tasked to uncover the source. Partnering with Cormond, a former priest of the Cathedral of Light, a new questline will unravel the origins of this malignancy. The decaying abominations, or Malignant Monsters, spawned from Lilith’s sinister machinations, and roam freely, posing a pervasive threat.
In a unique twist, players can harness the power of these corrupted beings by defeating them and capturing their Malignant Hearts. 32 new Malignant Powers will be up for grabs, presenting players with exciting new build-altering capabilities.
Adding to the adventure, players can explore the newly introduced Malignant Tunnels. These dungeons are filled with fearsome foes and malignant monsters, including Varshan the Consumed, a new boss challenge. These malignant hearts can be used in special Infested sockets in Jewelry instead of a Normal Gem, creating a whole new dynamic for gearing up your character.
Blizzard is not skimping on the loot. Six new unique items and seven new legendary aspects are set to be introduced during the Season Journey, providing a broader arsenal of options for every class.
The Season Journey is structured into chapters with tasks that reward players with potent items such as new Legendary Aspects, a Mastery Title, and a Scroll of Amnesia for a free Skill Tree and Paragon Board reset. Players can also earn Favor, a resource for progressing through the Battle Pass’ Tiers, which provides rewards like new equipment, armor, mounts, and more.
Season 1 presents an equal playing field, allowing players to experiment with new classes or different builds. Players must create a new character in the Seasonal Realm to participate, with all progress and items collected transferring to the Eternal Realm after the season ends.
