Diablo II: Resurrected

Even without the nostalgia creeping in, one can plainly see that this is a game for the ages. Cross-play would make this the perfect release for me, but even as is, I love this game.

85%Game Brain Score

graphics, gameplay

music, optimization

90% User Score Based on 884 reviews

Critic Score 79%Based on 46 reviews

Platforms

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About

Diablo II: Resurrected is a single player and multiplayer role playing game. It was developed by Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. and was released on September 23, 2021. It received mostly positive reviews from critics and very positive reviews from players.

Diablo II: Resurrected is a remastered action RPG featuring enhanced 3D graphics, remastered audio, and updated cinematics. Explore the war-torn world of Sanctuary, master over 200 skills across eight classes, and battle demonic forces in cooperative multiplayer. The Reign of the Warlock DLC adds a new class, revamped endgame, and fresh gameplay mechanics.

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90%

Audience ScoreBased on 884 reviews

graphics20 positive mentions

music3 negative mentions

Diablo II: Resurrected perfectly captures the original atmosphere while offering updated graphics and quality of life improvements.
The new Warlock class adds fresh gameplay mechanics and fits seamlessly into the existing game structure.
The game runs smoothly on Steam Deck, making it accessible for players who prefer handheld gaming.

The requirement for a Battle.net account and the 30-day online check-in for offline play is frustrating for many players.
Some quality of life improvements and features are locked behind the new expansion, which feels like a cash grab.
The game still shows its age in certain mechanics, which may deter new players used to more modern ARPGs.

graphics
60 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
33%
62%
5%
The graphics of the remastered game have received widespread acclaim for successfully modernizing the original's aesthetic while preserving its dark, atmospheric tone. Players appreciate the stunning new visuals, improved lighting, and enhanced details that elevate the experience, although some express disappointment over the inability to toggle back to legacy graphics in the latest expansion. Overall, the remaster is celebrated as a prime example of how to update a classic without losing its essence.
- “This particular remaster is one of the finest examples in games, with absolutely gorgeous new graphics and lighting capturing the dark, moody, and forbidding nature of Diablo II.”
- “The updated visuals are fantastic while still keeping that classic feel.”
- “This remaster took late 90s graphics and made them modern while still sticking to the original game's very unique grim dark feel.”
- “The only complaint I have (besides the online check every 30 days...) is the fact that you can't turn on the legacy graphics for the latest version of the game.”
- “I love old graphics on modern resolutions, but this classic mode is not ideal in 2026.”
- “My only real complaint is that you can’t toggle the legacy graphics while playing the new expansion content.”
gameplay
29 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
28%
62%
10%
The gameplay of the remastered Diablo 2 retains its classic mechanics, which may feel dated compared to modern ARPGs, but it successfully integrates quality-of-life improvements that enhance the experience. Players appreciate the addictive loot grind, distinct character builds, and the introduction of the new warlock class, which adds depth and excitement to gameplay. Overall, the game is celebrated for its strong mechanics, immersive atmosphere, and nostalgic charm, making it a timeless gem for both new and returning players.
- “The mechanics are still the same, the thrill of hunting for legendary loot is intact, and the iconic dark atmosphere now shines with modern shadows, 4K resolution, and physics.”
- “It’s packed with flavor, depth, and genuinely unique mechanics that make every build feel distinct and rewarding.”
- “An insanely good remake of one of the best games of all time that respects the gameplay and art style of the original game while it also brings new and very welcome quality of life improvements.”
- “If you have never played Diablo 2 but you've played modern ARPGs like Path of Exile or Grim Dawn, you may find it difficult to get back to, because the remaster does not shy away from the dated mechanics.”
- “There's enough quality of life additions to make it tolerable when compared against newer games, but make no mistake, this game is 25 years old and the underlying mechanics are largely untouched.”
- “The gameplay takes a little bit of getting used to through a gamepad, but it works similar to other Diablo games.”
story
15 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
27%
53%
20%
The story of the game is widely praised as one of the best in the Diablo franchise, featuring a grim and dark narrative that enhances the overall experience. Players appreciate the engaging storytelling, particularly through character-driven cutscenes, and the depth it adds to the gameplay. However, some feel that the game could benefit from more narrative content and less focus on minor enemies.
- “A timeless gem, top tier quality from story, soundtrack, systems, and gameplay.”
- “The story is still the best in the franchise.”
- “Following in the steps of Marius and the Dark Wanderer through the different acts while being told the story through Marius' own narration in the cutscenes served as a really good way to learn about this universe and the horrors within it.”
- “Game is the same but with a new character and some new items, maybe some new quests later on, not sure yet, but it's just D2R with DLC basically.”
- “Could use more story and less small enemies.”
- “3 you want to see the absolute pinnacle of ARPG storytelling, ie hilariously cheesy 20th century CG cutscenes (don't bother with the remade ones, they're boringly competent).”
music
15 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
13%
67%
20%
The music in the game is universally praised as a standout feature, with many reviewers highlighting its timeless quality and emotional impact, particularly the iconic Tristram theme. The soundtrack, composed by Matt Uelmen, enhances the gameplay experience and evokes nostalgia, contributing significantly to the game's addictive atmosphere. Overall, the music is considered a perfect complement to the game's graphics and sound design, solidifying its status as a classic.
- “The graphics are gorgeous, the music is one-of-a-kind, and the progression is a pure dopamine drip.”
- “Amazing art style begs to be played at night, paired with Matt Uelmen's unforgettable music to accompany you eastward... always eastward.”
- “The music is an absolute highlight and what contributes to its feeling of perpetuity - it's magical whenever that Tristram theme is played on guitar, it has the ability to take you back through time.”
- “Back then (1997 - 2004), Blizzard cared about its soundtracks, and when the name 'Blizzard' was on a product, it guaranteed quality.”
- “A game like this, of course, also has phenomenal soundtracks; I mean, people who never played this game know what the Tristram theme sounds like.”
stability
12 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
92%
25%
Overall, the game demonstrates strong stability across platforms, particularly on the Steam Deck and PC, with users consistently reporting smooth performance and enjoyable gameplay. However, some players noted that load times could be an issue, though this did not significantly detract from their overall experience.
- “The game runs great on my Steam Deck, and I still can’t believe they updated D2 after 25 years.”
- “The game runs great on both PC and handheld PC.”
- “Happy to see D2 finally come to Steam, and it runs great on Steam Deck.”
- “Spending hours troubleshooting IP addresses, feeling like a pro hacker.”
- “The game crashes frequently, making it nearly unplayable.”
- “I often experience lag spikes that disrupt my gameplay experience.”
atmosphere
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
36%
37%
27%
The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its dark, gritty, and immersive qualities, successfully capturing the essence of the original while enhancing it with modern graphics and sound. Players find the combination of addictive loot mechanics, intense boss fights, and atmospheric music to create a captivating experience that stands out among both classic and contemporary titles. Overall, the game is celebrated as a dungeon-crawling masterpiece that maintains an unparalleled atmosphere.
- “Resurrected perfectly nails the original atmosphere while offering some really nice up-to-date graphics.”
- “The mechanics are still the same, the thrill of hunting for legendary loot is intact, and the iconic dark atmosphere now shines with modern shadows, 4K resolution, and physics.”
- “A dungeon crawling masterpiece with an atmosphere that is sublime and unparalleled.”
- “The atmosphere is dark and gritty, the loot system is dangerously addictive, and every boss fight feels like a personal grudge match.”
- “The atmosphere is oppressive in all the right ways.”
- “Even today, nothing quite captures the atmosphere, pacing, and build freedom the way this classic does.”
optimization
8 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
38%
24%
38%
Overall, "Diablo II: Resurrected" is praised for its excellent optimization on the Steam Deck, delivering smooth performance and well-optimized controls, even at varying settings. However, some users report performance issues in specific areas, with frame rates dropping into the low 30s on max settings. Despite these concerns, the game runs solidly out of the box, though players must manually transfer offline characters due to the lack of cloud sync.
- “Not only is Diablo II: Resurrected well optimized for the Steam Deck, but on top of that, you also get the frickin' 'Reign of the Warlock' DLC for free, instead of paying $25 on Battle.”
- “Most amazing thing is how well it is optimized for Steam Deck.”
- “Performance is atrocious.”
- “As far as deck performance goes, it's low 30s in Harrogath (highest demand non-combat area) on max settings and low 50s there on lowest.”
- “Performance on the Steam Deck is solid right out of the box, though you will need to manually drag and drop your offline characters from PC since there is no cloud sync for them yet.”
monetization
8 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
38%
12%
50%
Reviews indicate a mixed sentiment regarding monetization, with some players feeling that the game is a cash grab that relies on nostalgia while shifting focus to merchandising and cross-game monetization. Although there are no microtransactions currently, concerns persist that future updates may introduce them, reminiscent of past titles. Overall, players express a desire for a return to the original spirit of the game rather than a focus on monetization strategies.
- “No microtransactions.”
- “Blizzard, you can actually do something besides monetization.”
- “It feels like a 'Ghost in the Shell' version of its former self — a deliberate strategy by Activision to offer just enough nostalgia to keep long-time fans engaged, even as the studio's original spirit fades and the focus shifts toward merchandising and cross-game monetization of plushies.”
- “It feels like a 'ghost in the shell' version of its former self — a deliberate strategy by Activision to offer just enough nostalgia to keep long-time fans engaged, even as the studio's original spirit fades and the focus shifts toward merchandising and cross-game monetization of plushies.”
- “Another cash grab attempt preying on nostalgia.”
- “Diablo 2 was Blizzard at the peak of the company's timeline, when Blizzard still cared about making good games for gamers as opposed to the micromanaged MTX cash grab it has turned into.”
grinding
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Players note a lack of traditional grinding opportunities, particularly in the early stages of the game, with many focusing on casual play and gear accumulation rather than competitive grinding. While some express a desire for more engaging endgame content, the addictive nature of the gameplay and class building keeps players motivated to grind through the campaign. Overall, the experience is enjoyable, though some feel it could benefit from improved grinding mechanics.
- “I will say, and maybe because it just released on Steam, but there seems to be a lack of the original Baal runs (XP grinding). Although I'm only on normal still and haven't beaten normal Baal, I imagine that would change because who really grinds normal Baal?”
- “I'm 8 hours in and got to Act 5 on three characters on day 1 of coming back on normal, but I have not seen any Act 5 lobbies yet. So I've been grinding normal for chill and enjoyment's sake, and grinding some gear so I can eventually solo Act 5 myself into Nightmare... unless I find a lobby before that.”
- “Some of its spiritual successors improved on aspects of economy and endgame grinding, but no other ARPG has ever made a campaign as fun to play repeatedly as this.”
replayability
4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
Reviewers highlight Diablo II's exceptional replayability, citing its diverse class lineup and timeless gameplay loop that offers thousands of hours of engaging content. The game is praised for its enduring appeal and unmatched identity, making it a standout in the genre for replay value.
- “Tons of replayability.”
- “A timeless loop, endlessly replayable, and still unmatched in tone and identity.”
- “Diablo II already has one of the strongest class lineups ever for replay value in gaming history.”
- “Thousands of hours of replayability.”
humor
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The humor in the game is characterized by a blend of hilariously cheesy 20th-century CG cutscenes and a sense of irony regarding its release strategy, with players finding amusement in both the game's storytelling and its perceived shortcomings. While some aspects are seen as frustrating, they contribute to a comedic charm that resonates with fans. Overall, the humor is a mix of nostalgia and playful critique of the game's design choices.
- “You want to see the absolute pinnacle of ARPG storytelling, i.e., hilariously cheesy 20th-century CG cutscenes (don't bother with the remade ones, they're boringly competent).”
- “Blizzard thought it would be really funny to shadow drop what is arguably their best game in their entire catalog.”
- “They absolutely tripped right before the finish line. Why give a grail tracker but not specific item slots? It'd be a hilarious failure of incompetence if it wasn't so maddening.”