Diablo IV’s first season, titled Season of the Malignant, is set to go live on July 20. The new seasonal content includes a new quest line that takes place after the events of the main campaign. Players will be introduced to a new character in Cormand, a former priest from the Cathedral of Light who is focused on stopping the spread of the Malignant. That means players will have to deal with Malignant Monsters throughout Sanctuary and Blizzard said any Elite will have a chance at spawning as a Malignant Monster. As a reward for defeating Malignant Monsters, players will receive Malignant Hearts that can be inserted into rings and amulets.
Although Blizzard was light on the details, it hinted that Season of the Malignant will also introduce a new boss monster, as well as new legendary and unique items, among other features. The new items will also be heading to the Eternal Realm for all players to enjoy. Diablo IV’s seasons will be very similar in nature to previous Diablo games, where players will have to start a new character from Level 1. The new Season Journey will take place over seven chapters, and ties into the Battle Pass.
The Season of the Malignant patch is expected to go live on July 18, two days ahead of the season’s launch. The new items and balance changes will be available on the Eternal Realm on that day, allowing players to get a head start in planning for the season.
It remains to be seen if these seasons will address some of our major concerns with Diablo IV, but we’re certainly going to give it a fair shot when it launches in two weeks.
