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Diablo II: Resurrected

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Diablo II: Resurrected
Item: Diablo II: Resurrected
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2021

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Party, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableSep 23, 2021

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox One

DeveloperBlizzard Entertainment

Overview

Diablo II: Resurrected breathes new life into Blizzard Entertainment’s acclaimed ARPG and its expansion, Diablo II: Lord of Destruction, from beginning to end. Return to fight for Sanctuary and discover the fate of the mysterious Dark Wanderer rebuilt in all-new 3D graphics, brand-new cinematics, remastered audio… and the same classic Diablo II gameplay you remember.

Elsewhere

8.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The critics generally praise the story of Diablo II: Resurrected for its deep lore, engaging narrative, and nostalgic appeal. Hobby Consolas mentions that the game retains classic RPG elements and deep lore, providing a rewarding experience for players familiar with the franchise. Eurogamer Italy highlights the rich lore and storyline continuing from the first Diablo game, focusing on the return of the Lord of Terror, Diablo. Additionally, God is a Geek and MondoXbox appreciate the straightforward yet enjoyable storytelling, with the former mentioning the player's quest to defeat Diablo, the Lord of Terror. On the other hand, some critics express mixed feelings about the story of Diablo II: Resurrected. Push Square finds the storyline unengaging, preferring to focus on gameplay rather than the narrative. Worth Playing on the Nintendo Switch notes that the narrative is told in an archaic way that can be easy to ignore, potentially causing the story to stagnate in later acts. Pure Nintendo also criticizes the story as perfunctory, with a primary focus on action rather than deep storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a positive reception of the story in Diablo II: Resurrected. While some reviewers like Destructoid and IGN France praise the grimdark atmosphere and engaging narrative, others such as PlayStation Universe and TheXboxHub appreciate the remade cutscenes and the tie-in with the series' lore. Despite some criticisms from Push Square and Worth Playing, the majority of critics acknowledge the game's strengths in delivering a nostalgic and rewarding storytelling experience that aligns well with the franchise's legacy.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics generally praise Diablo II: Resurrected for its deep lore, engaging narrative, and nostalgic appeal, with some mixed feelings on the storytelling approach. While some find the storyline unengaging and perfunctory, most reviewers appreciate the game's rewarding and nostalgic storytelling experience that aligns well with the franchise's legacy.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

75%

Mixed (50-79)

25%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics found the gameplay of Diablo II: Resurrected to be very good, with several positive aspects highlighted. Game Informer praised the core mechanics holding up well and the enjoyable experience of gaining new skills, discovering loot, and defeating bosses. Push Square commended the simplicity and efficiency of the gameplay, emphasizing the importance of character class choices and multiplayer aspects. GamingBolt found the gameplay immensely satisfying and varied, with satisfying combat and intricate mechanics, especially noting the seamless transition to console. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain negatives regarding the gameplay of Diablo II: Resurrected. Checkpoint Gaming and GameCritics mentioned the repetitive nature of the gameplay loop and the limitations of controls and UI, with GameCritics specifically highlighting tedious and tiresome gameplay with outdated mechanics. PlaySense noted that while the gameplay remained faithful to the original, issues like managing stamina and limited inventory space persisted, impacting the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Diablo II: Resurrected offers a compelling gameplay experience that stays true to the original while incorporating some quality-of-life improvements. Critics like IGN Italia appreciated the fast-paced combat, loot collection, and character customization, while Generación Xbox and Wccftech highlighted the complexity and exploration elements appreciated by fans. Despite some criticisms regarding outdated mechanics and limitations, the majority of critics found the gameplay engaging, addictive, and enjoyable, making it a worthy remaster for both nostalgic fans and newcomers to the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise Diablo II: Resurrected gameplay for its satisfying combat, varied mechanics, and seamless console transition. Some note repetitive gameplay and outdated mechanics, but overall, the game offers an engaging and addictive experience true to the original with some quality-of-life improvements.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

86%

Mixed (50-79)

14%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Diablo II: Resurrected for its significant improvements over the original game. Critics such as Hardcore Gamer and Game Revolution highlighted the transition to HD 4K visuals, with updated character models and environments that enhance the dark and gothic atmosphere of the game. Worth Playing and Game Informer also commended the inclusion of 3D character models, new animations, and improved textures, allowing players to switch between the Resurrected and original look seamlessly. The visual overhaul was particularly appreciated by Everyeye.it and Vandal, who noted the modernized visuals, art direction, and lighting effects that enhance the pixelated charm of the original game. While the general sentiment towards the Graphics and Visual Design of Diablo II: Resurrected was overwhelmingly positive, some critics did point out a few drawbacks. PlayStation Universe and God is a Geek mentioned that the graphics, while decent by modern standards, may appear slightly crude when compared to recent AAA games, indicating some limitations in the visual fidelity. Additionally, Game Informer highlighted a minor loss of personality in the updated graphics, suggesting that some of the original charm may have been slightly diminished in the remaster. However, these criticisms were minor in comparison to the overall positive reception of the game's visual enhancements. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Diablo II: Resurrected delivers a remarkable visual upgrade that successfully modernizes the graphics while staying true to the original game's dark and gothic aesthetic. The ability to toggle between old and new graphics in real-time, as noted by Game Informer and Cubed3, provides players with a flexible and immersive experience that caters to both nostalgia and modern gaming standards. The attention to detail in textures, environments, and lighting, as highlighted by Vandal and LevelUp, further enhances the overall gameplay experience. Despite some minor criticisms, the majority of critics found the Graphics and Visual Design of Diablo II: Resurrected to be very good, capturing the essence of the original game while elevating it for a new generation of players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics praise Diablo II: Resurrected for its impressive graphics overhaul, including HD 4K visuals, updated character models, and enhanced environments that maintain the game's dark atmosphere. While some critics note minor drawbacks like dated graphics compared to AAA titles and a slight loss of original charm, overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The ability to switch between old and new graphics seamlessly adds to the immersive experience, making it a hit among both nostalgic fans and new players.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

72%

Mixed (50-79)

28%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The Sound Design and Music of Diablo II: Resurrected have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. GameSpew describes the soundtrack as outstanding, perfectly accentuating the gameplay. PlayStation Universe praises the intact and improved original soundtrack and sound effects, providing a nostalgic experience consistent with the original game. Press Start Australia appreciates the revamped music and audio, maintaining the personality of the original game's music with more spacious recordings. The Games Machine and MondoXbox both highlight the stellar soundtrack that enhances the overall experience, with The Games Machine noting smooth performance on PlayStation 5 and MondoXbox mentioning an enhanced atmosphere due to the remastered soundtrack. On the flip side, some critics did point out minor drawbacks in the Sound Design and Music of Diablo II: Resurrected. TierraGamer mentions that the game doesn't fully utilize the capabilities of the DualSense controller, impacting the overall immersion. TheXboxHub notes that while the voiceover work is great, some repetitive lines can be annoying. Attack of the Fanboy acknowledges that while the soundtrack fits the mood of different zones and battles, some sound effects can come off as cheesy. Cubed3 mentions controversy regarding changes to character designs, which might have affected the overall audiovisual experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of Diablo II: Resurrected. The enhanced sound quality, remastered soundtrack, and immersive audio effects have been widely praised for elevating the game's atmosphere and nostalgic appeal. Critics like Everyeye.it and Worth Playing appreciate the masterfully updated sound design and enhanced clarity for voices and music. While there were minor criticisms regarding controller utilization, repetitive lines, and controversial design changes, the general sentiment is that the audio elements of the game contribute significantly to the overall experience, maintaining the essence of the original while adding modern enhancements.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Diablo II: Resurrected's sound design and music hailed as outstanding by critics for enhancing gameplay, maintaining nostalgia, and elevating atmosphere. Minor critiques on DualSense controller use, repetitive lines, and cheesy sound effects mentioned. Overall, the remastered soundtrack and immersive audio effects widely praised for enhancing the game's nostalgic appeal and atmosphere.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The Voice Acting in Diablo II: Resurrected has garnered positive feedback from several critics. Push Square appreciated the well-acted performances, indicating a level of quality in the voiceover work. TheXboxHub also commended the voiceover work, describing it as great and highlighting how it enhances the overall presentation of the game. Multiplayer.it's mention of the Italian voice acting maintaining fidelity to the original game suggests a commitment to preserving the essence of the original Diablo II experience through voice performances. Vandal's acknowledgment of the Spanish voice acting adding a nostalgic touch indicates that the voice acting contributed to creating a sense of nostalgia for players familiar with the original game. On the other hand, there are some gaps in the reviews regarding the Voice Acting of Diablo II: Resurrected. Checkpoint Gaming's review, while praising the cinematics and animations, did not specifically mention the voice acting, leaving a question mark on whether it made a significant impact on the overall experience. PlaySense's review, although praising the sound design and music, did not delve into the voice acting as a separate aspect, potentially indicating that it did not stand out as a standout feature for them. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a positive reception of the Voice Acting in Diablo II: Resurrected. The general sentiment is that the voiceover work contributes positively to the game's presentation and atmosphere. While there are some reviews that do not explicitly highlight the voice acting, the overall tone suggests that it is a well-executed aspect of the game that enhances the overall experience for players. The mentions of different language voice acting options adding to the nostalgia and fidelity to the original game further reinforce the notion that the Voice Acting in Diablo II: Resurrected has been well-received by critics.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics widely praise Diablo II: Resurrected's voice acting for its quality performances and enhancing the game's atmosphere. Some reviewers didn't focus on voice acting, but overall, it's seen as a positive aspect that adds to the nostalgia and overall experience.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

84%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of positives for the technical performance of Diablo II: Resurrected on different gaming platforms, several critics highlighted various aspects. Hobby Consolas praised the improved graphics and animations, reaching 4K resolution at 60 FPS on PS5 and Xbox Series X, indicating a visually enhanced experience. The Games Machine noted that the game runs smoothly on PlayStation 5 with fast loading times, showcasing good technical performance. Generación Xbox mentioned that the game ran smoothly on Xbox Series X once initial performance issues were resolved, providing a stable experience for players on this platform. On the other hand, there were several negatives mentioned by critics regarding the technical performance of the game on different platforms. Destructoid and Press Start Australia both experienced server issues on PS5, with lag, crashes, and connection hiccups impacting the gameplay experience. GamingBolt highlighted issues on Xbox Series X, such as losing progress due to generating new instances of areas and losing connection to servers, affecting the overall enjoyment. Attack of the Fanboy and Checkpoint Gaming reported various bugs and glitches on PC, including deleted characters, crashes, and combat hindrances, which could deter players from fully enjoying the game. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of Diablo II: Resurrected is mixed. While some reviewers, such as PlayStation Universe and Push Square, found the game to run smoothly with minimal technical issues on PS5, others, like IGN France and Worth Playing, encountered significant problems like crashes, connection issues, and server instability. Despite the varying experiences across different platforms, it is evident that technical issues, such as lag, server problems, and bugs, have been a common concern among critics, impacting the overall gameplay experience for many players. As noted by critics like Hardcore Gamer, these technical woes are expected to be addressed through future patches, potentially improving the game's performance and stability across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

TLDR: Diablo II: Resurrected dazzles with enhanced graphics and smooth performance on PS5 and Xbox Series X, but suffers from server issues causing lag and crashes on all platforms. Critics are divided on technical performance, with some experiencing smooth gameplay while others face significant bugs and glitches. Future patches may address these issues to enhance the overall gaming experience.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

59%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Diablo II: Resurrected highlight several positive aspects. Critics such as Destructoid and PlayStation Universe praise the game for offering diverse character options, deep character development, and online play, which contribute to its replayability. The ability to switch between retro and modern styles, choose ladder or non-ladder characters, and opt for expansion or classic mode, as mentioned by Destructoid, adds depth to the gameplay experience and enhances replay value. Additionally, the satisfaction of looting, challenging gameplay, and the hunt for better loot, as noted by Hardcore Gamer and MGG, provide players with lasting appeal and motivation to continue playing. On the other hand, some critics point out potential drawbacks that may impact the replay value of Diablo II: Resurrected. IGN France mentions the grind to reach level 99 and the lack of diverse endgame PvE content as possible deterrents to replayability. NME highlights that while the game offers a compelling loop and joy of discovery, some elements feel dated, and there is a risk of getting lost or missing key progression moments. Issues with outdated mechanics, lack of modern features, and concerns over feature gaps and mod support, as mentioned by MGG, PCGamesN, and PC Gamer, respectively, may also hinder the overall replay value for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Diablo II: Resurrected offers substantial replay value for both returning players and newcomers. The game's classic gameplay, diverse character classes, and the eternal search for loot, as acknowledged by Metro GameCentral and TheXboxHub, provide an engaging and rewarding experience. Despite some dated elements and potential technical issues, the remaster successfully captures the essence of the original game while introducing quality-of-life improvements and modern enhancements, as noted by Vandal. The mix of nostalgia and fresh gameplay experiences, as highlighted by ZTGD and Atomix, contributes to the game's enduring appeal and makes it a worthwhile investment for fans of the action RPG genre.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics praise Diablo II: Resurrected for its diverse character options, deep gameplay, and online play, boosting its replay value. However, concerns about grind, lack of modern features, and outdated mechanics may deter some players. Overall, the remaster offers engaging gameplay, nostalgia, and enduring appeal, making it a solid choice for both new and returning players.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

72%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers on Diablo II: Resurrected, it is evident that the majority of critics found the game to have several positive aspects. Many praised the faithful remastering of the original game, with updated graphics and quality-of-life features that enhance the overall gaming experience. Critics like IGN Italia and Everyeye.it highlighted the successful revival of the classic game, capturing its essence while introducing modern enhancements. PC Gamer commended the fear-inducing gameplay, classic design, and attention to detail in graphics, emphasizing its appeal to dedicated Diablo 2 players. Additionally, Worth Playing appreciated the portability of the Nintendo Switch version, offering improved visuals and good controller implementation. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain negatives of Diablo II: Resurrected. GameCritics and Checkpoint Gaming mentioned issues with character design changes, outdated gameplay mechanics, restrictive controls, and finicky UI that may not resonate well with younger or newer players. PlaySense noted server issues, bugs, and missing features that detracted from the overall experience, recommending players to wait for further updates. Twinfinite criticized the lack of couch co-op for consoles and the challenging inventory management system, which hindered the gameplay experience for some. Despite the mixed opinions on specific aspects of the game, the overall consensus among the critics leans towards a positive evaluation of Diablo II: Resurrected. The game is widely regarded as a successful remaster that pays homage to the original while introducing modern improvements, appealing to both fans of the original and newcomers alike. Critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and Attack of the Fanboy praised the game for staying true to its roots, providing a rewarding adventure with updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements. The game's ability to cater to both veteran and nostalgic players, as well as its potential for future patches to address current issues, further solidifies its position as a must-have for fans of the looter genre and ARPG enthusiasts. Overall, Diablo II: Resurrected is celebrated as a valuable addition to the gaming landscape, preserving the essence of a beloved classic while revitalizing it for a new generation of players.

TL;DR

Critics mostly praised Diablo II: Resurrected for its faithful remastering, updated graphics, and modern enhancements, appealing to both old and new players. Some critics mentioned issues like character design changes and bugs, but overall, the game is seen as a successful revival that stays true to its roots and offers a rewarding experience with the potential for future improvements.

MONSTER

Reviews

140 reviews found

CGMagazine

Sep 28, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer loves many aspects of Diablo II: Resurrected and sees themselves putting in another thousand hours into the game.

Ragequit.gr

Jan 10, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The author gives Diablo II: Resurrected a rating of 92%, describing it as 'diabolically good' and a must-have for fans of the looter genre.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Oct 8, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Diablo II: Resurrected is praised as one of the best action RPGs of all time, despite some clunky aspects. The lack of local co-op is mentioned as a downside.

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Power Unlimited

Sep 25, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer states that Diablo 2: Resurrected is the perfect remaster for Diablo 2 veterans and feels like a warm bath.

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Digital Trends

Oct 1, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Diablo II: Resurrected is a huge accomplishment, preserving the original game while still being approachable to new players. It is recommended for fans of the genre and those interested in gaming history.

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LevelUp

Sep 28, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A successful remaster that revitalizes a beloved classic while staying true to its roots, recommended for fans, veterans, and newcomers.

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Cubed3

Oct 26, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises Diablo II: Resurrected as a devilishly good remaster and a definite version of the game. It acknowledges the missed opportunity for additions or changes but still considers it a high standard in the ARPG genre.

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ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Oct 13, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review describes Diablo 2: Resurrected as a masterpiece in its own right, praising its freshness and nostalgic appeal. It also mentions that the game may not appeal to those who are accustomed to the modern conveniences of Diablo 3.

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Game Informer

Sep 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The overall verdict is positive, stating that Diablo II: Resurrected is an incredible revamp of a classic game that is worth the time to play.

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MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

Oct 4, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A faithful remaster that retains the essence of the original while enhancing the experience for both new and returning players, offering a solid gameplay experience with improved visuals and replay value.

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