On December 31st, 1996 Blizzard Entertainment released what would become one of its most prized possessions. Called Diablo, it was a game that was unlike anything else the company have ever tried before with dark themes and thrilling hack and slash gameplay. Its gamble would pay off in a big way.
Since that time, several expansions and two sequels have been released within the Diablo franchise on its quest to becoming a billion dollar franchise. It has also become a major element of Blizzard's cross-product strategy, such as the introduction of multiple major characters in Heroes of the Storm and references in games such as Hearthstone and World of Warcraft.
It goes without saying that this 20 year anniversary is important. To celebrate, Blizzard will be releasing several in-game events and goodies across its portfolio. Beginning this week, the following will be introduced:
Recapture the feeling of your first play through of the original Diablo with The Darkening of Tristram tribute event. Venture through a reimagined version of the original cathedral in Diablo III and keep an eye out for some familiar items.
Heroes of the Storm:
The battle for the High Heavens continues, and a new Diablo-themed portrait is up for grabs! Can you emerge victorious on this hectic new brawl map?
Hearthstone:
In this Tavern Brawl, a hooded stranger awaits, holding a grim deck in his hands. Will you unravel the secrets surrounding this dark wanderer?
Overwatch:
Bring the battle for Sanctuary into the fight for the future with in-game sprays representing your favorite Diablo III classes—along with a new player icon modeled after the Lord of Terror!
StarCraft II:
Put the Lord of Terror to work for you with a Diablo-themed worker portrait.
World of Warcraft:
Strange things are afoot in the world of Azeroth as denizens of Sanctuary cross over into an unfamiliar world.
We recently wrote about the prospect of a Diablo 4, which is something many gamers are anticipating. You can read about that here.
Happy anniversary to Diablo.
