Diablo 2: Resurrected is finally getting more stash tabs and a new item set — for the Chinese version only

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On June 8, 2025, it marked a significant milestone – the 25th anniversary – for the classic and enduring action role-playing game (ARPG), Diablo 2. To honor this event, the official Diablo account on X shared a mysterious message that sparked great enthusiasm among the fanbase.

If you believe that you have experienced everything and accomplished all there is to do, prepare yourself for the unexpected turbulence we still have in store,” was the tantalizing hint, which sparked a great deal of discussion among the champions of Sanctuary as they debated about what this “turbulence” might entail.

Exciting news! We’re getting new runes, a fresh playable character, updated Horadric Cube crafting recipes, and even an entirely new chapter in the game. Just thinking about it sets my mind racing at the prospect of another 25 years of enjoying one of my all-time favorite games!

The latest update sheds light on recent developments regarding Diablo 2, and the revelations might surprise you.

Diablo 2: Resurrected is launching in China … is that the big news?

At the ChinaJoy 2025 entertainment fair on August 2nd, representatives from Blizzard’s Diablo team and leading game publisher NetEase jointly revealed a newly tailored version of Diablo 2: Resurrected, specifically designed for the Chinese market.

Johanna Faries, president of Blizzard Entertainment, recently revealed via LinkedIn that they are planning to unveil something soon, accompanied by a sneak peek trailer tailored for the Chinese audience. In the same post, she hinted that Diablo 4 will be launching in China shortly as well.

It’s understandable if you find it surprising that such a large market as China has waited so long for the release of Diablo 2: Resurrected.

It appears that the issue revolves around China’s distinctive regulations and limitations on content, particularly gory or bloody themes, which are prevalent throughout Diablo 2.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that in order to release a game in China, it is necessary to do so through a local Chinese publishing company. This is the role that NetEase assumes, stepping in for Blizzard Entertainment, likely following some negotiations.

It’s evident that the Chinese edition of Diablo 2: Resurrected won’t match the global version, which players have experienced since its launch in 2021.

In its current form, this updated version is unlikely to be compatible with the regular edition of Diablo 2: Resurrected, which means you probably won’t see a significant increase in Chinese players joining the existing multiplayer worlds.

What’s different in China’s version of Diablo 2: Resurrected?

Resurrected edition designed for China is tailored to suit the preferences of the Chinese market, which NetEase is very familiar with.

If you dislike pay-to-win elements in video games, it’s worth noting that this approach is less frowned upon in China, as evidenced by the various tiered launch packages that can be purchased.

For approximately $23 USD, you can purchase a standard package which includes Diablo 2: Resurrected, along with a 30-day bonus that increases your experience and magic find rates by 30%.

Moving forward, we have the premium package priced at approximately 40 USD or 278 Yuan. This tier includes a 30-day enhancement for gameplay and magic finding, along with it comes nine average quality items, such as two Rainbow Facets, and several common low runes.

For approximately $63 USD, you can purchase the comprehensive pack which is packed with the maximum amount of content. This bundle introduces an entirely fresh set titled “Glory of the Warlord.” Consisting of a helmet, chest piece, gloves, belt, and boots, this new set confers a level 10 Meditation aura upon assembly, enhances all skills by 1, offers a 15% life leech capability, and provides additional protective statistics.

Additionally, you’ll receive extra Rainbow Gems and an enhancement that extends your 30% experience and treasure finding bonuses for a period of 90 days.

Speaking as someone who’s been playing Diablo 2 since its debut 25 years ago, I find these pay-to-win features underwhelming. The latest set is primarily beneficial for early to mid-game progression, and the rest of the additional content can usually be accumulated within a day or two of routine gameplay.

It’s not impossible for Blizzard to add more stash tabs; it’s just not on the to-do list

For longtime Diablo 2 players, the key takeaway is that those who pre-order the game receive an additional free stash tab beyond the ones introduced in the remaster. Notably, players can purchase up to three extra tabs, amounting to a total of four more than what regular players have access to.

Given that many Diablo 2 players have been eagerly requesting this feature since the remake was released, it feels somewhat disappointing that new Chinese players are receiving additional stash tabs. While Blizzard could potentially add more stash tabs, it does not seem to be a priority for them at the moment, for the rest of us.

It’s disappointing to witness Diablo 2 enthusiasts spending money on something that many of us have requested since the remake was introduced, especially when there are excellent Diablo 2 mods available for free that already incorporate this feature.

What does this mean for Diablo 2: Resurrected everywhere else?

Although the release of Diablo 2: Resurrected in China might not affect players elsewhere significantly, the ongoing development work suggests positive signs for fans worldwide, despite appearing as another instance of Blizzard seemingly being out of touch with their global audience.

Recently, I expressed my thoughts about the fresh season of Diablo 2: Resurrected without any updates, mentioning that it seemed as though Blizzard had left the game behind. I suggested they consider introducing multiplayer modding options to maintain its relevance over time.

Toward the end of June, we were given a sneak peek for the 25th anniversary, hinting at turmoil still to come. To make an educated guess, I don’t believe the Chinese release of Diablo 2: Resurrected is what that teaser was alluding to, but there’s always room for error.

I’m not certain one way or another, but I’m optimistically speculating that the news about Diablo 2: Resurrected coming to China could be a sign of exciting developments to come for the game, benefiting players worldwide.

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2025-08-05 01:41