(Image credit: Blizzard)
In an unexpected twist during the frantic final days of development, Blizzard introduced the revolutionary Greater Affixes to Diablo 4. Part of the transformative Loot Reborn update rolled out last April, these modifiers redefine the game’s endgame itemization by enhancing normal affixes, guaranteeing maximum rolls, and multiplying stats by an impressive 1.5 times.
The inclusion of Greater Affixes was a game-changer, ensuring players experienced a fresh dynamic in itemization. This innovative step was possible because Blizzard had structured their code in a way that allowed seamless alterations without jeopardizing the build’s stability, a critical factor in their development process.
During the Game Developers Conference, lead software engineer Patrick Ferland shared insights into the technical intricacies of the Loot Reborn update. Ferland revealed that the idea for Greater Affixes emerged when they had only two weeks left on the clock. He stated, “Literally, we had two weeks left in the development schedule when the proposal came. However, due to our robust data management, we could integrate a substantial change without risking stability.”
While Diablo 4 continues to face both praise and criticism, the revamp in balance and itemization, thanks to updates like Loot Reborn, addresses some of the game’s major challenges. Over the years, Blizzard has released a series of updates to refine these critical aspects, striving to enhance the overall player experience.
Looking to the future, Diablo 4 season 8 promises a refreshed boss ladder system with innovative mechanics and formidable adversaries, drawing inspiration from Diablo 3‘s iconic bosses. Stay tuned for weekly updates, community stories, and more!
Note: An earlier version of this article inaccurately suggested Greater Affixes were developed late in Diablo 4’s overall timeline rather than specifically for Loot Reborn. This has since been clarified.