The classic RPG gets the remaster treatment, but does it still hold up?
Diablo II: Resurrected is a remastered version of the quintessential action RPG Diablo II. Pursue the mysterious Dark Wanderer and fight the denizens of hell as you uncover the fate of the Prime Evils Diablo, Mephisto, and Baal. Features: Remastered graphics—monsters, heroes, items, spells, all resurrected. An epic story told through five distinct acts. Classic gameplay—the same Diablo II you know and love, preserved.
I have to confess that this is the first time I’ve played a Diablo game, I’ve heard all the praise for the series but just never got round to trying it myself, so I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. What I discovered was originally a PC game that has been remade for consoles with superb controller mapping and improved visuals, but because the classic gameplay is preserved from the original, it does feel dated and clunky by today’s standards.
It feels like it’s met old and new half-way to try and please fans and newcomers, which sounds like the best compromise, so you don’t upset the long-term fans while not completely alienating those playing the game for the first time. All expansions are included, and online co-op is added there’s no local co-op. I can imagine it’s due to technical limitations of the original code, but still a game like this would be perfect for a group of 2-4 sat on the sofa as you work your way through, so ultimately it feels like a missed opportunity.
For what originally was a PC title, Diablo II definitely works well on consoles with some of the best controller mapping I’ve seen for a game like this. While I hadn’t played a Diablo game in the past, I have played similar games, so I was ultimately impressed with what the team has delivered.
The improved visuals are a nice touch and definitely vastly greater than the original, which you can even switch back to for a true authentic look by pressing L2+Touchpad if you really want to. The game runs at a solid 60 FPS and load times are small overall, while the voice-acting is well done, and the soundtrack is top notch. Playing online was great but it did have a few issues that will no doubt be fixed over time and improved overall.
The Verdict
Diablo II Resurrected feels like the best of both worlds with its improved visuals but classic gameplay for veterans. It may be dated by today’s standards and a bit clunkier when compared to its successor, but ultimately, it’s the best version of a classic title that will likely keep everyone playing until Diablo 4 drops.