Blizzard CEO Talks Diablo III Issues and Patches

The Internet has been a buzz with criticism about Diablo III since it’s release, but Blizzard has apparently been listening. They detailed their optimistic plans for the future of Diablo III today in a blog post from company president Mike Morhaime.

“We truly believe ‘every voice matters’, so I want to thank you for sharing your experience in an effort to help us improve the game,” Morhaime said. “Rather than address every issue individually, I’ll just say that even as we work to address or resolve current issues, it’s always possible that further issues will pop up.”

So what exactly does Blizzard have in the works for the fastest selling PC game of all time? The answer is yet another patch, but this one may fine-tune the Diablo experience more than any of its predecessors.

Patch 1.0.4 is next in line, and its main focus is to help promote more build diversity. This will be done with multiple buffs to rarely used, underpowered class abilities. The patch will also aim at fixing the community’s resentment toward the legendary gear in the game. There will be more distinct legendary items that will be more epic, powerful, and interesting “in ways you probably won’t be expecting.”

There are also planned interface updates in the works. These will let users join games quicker, make communication more efficient, and increase search functionality in the auction house.

Even though Blizzard may be attempting to fix some issues causing turmoil in the community, one of the biggest will not be changed.

“I fully understand the desire to play Diablo III offline,” Morhaime said. “However, Diablo III was designed from the beginning to be an online game that can be enjoyed with friends, and the always online requirement is the best way for us to support that design.”

What can we expect in the future from Blizzard? Mainly, we can expect to see co-op play become increasingly rewarding, as it’s one of their long term goals. Patch 1.1 is in the near future as well, and it will introduce a PVP element to the game. Some surprises may also be in store.

“We’re also working on a gameplay system that will provide plays who have max-level, high-powered characters new goals to strive for as an alternative to the ‘item hunt’,” Morhaime said. “We’re not ready to get into specifics yet, but I can say we’re actively taking your feedback into account as we plan out the future of the game.”