Posted:2024-11-19
Source: IGZ
November 20 Update: Class Balances and Gameplay Adjustments
On November 20, Diablo IV introduced a mid-season patch with numerous balance changes. While extensive, the adjustments mainly reflect Blizzard's usual approach to mid-season tuning—minor internal class adjustments combined with significant buffs to underutilized builds. This results in a balance patch that feels impactful for niche builds but less transformative for the overall gameplay landscape.
For instance, the Spiritborn’s "Resolve" and "Viscous Shield" mechanics, along with the Necromancer's Tempering bug, remain untouched, allowing these classes to excel in pushing Tier 150. In contrast, other classes still struggle to reach Tier 130. That said, each class has seen some improvements, such as the Sorcerer’s "Ice Shard" build and the Rogue’s "Exploding Arrow," which has received a significant buff, potentially increasing its damage output by several times. This change gives the Rogue a chance to push beyond Tier 120, but it still pales in comparison to the Necromancer and Barbarian, who are looking at Tiers 125 or higher.
If you're considering switching to a new class, Necromancer and Barbarian are excellent choices. Meanwhile, the niche Centipede build for the Spiritborn, which was already capable of Tier 150, has received a 50% strength boost.
Enhanced GA Gear and Gameplay Adjustments
The highlight of this update is the improved roll rates for GA gear. Blizzard has adjusted the variability of Legendary Aspects, significantly increasing the drop rate of high-roll items. Based on personal experience, a two-hour play session post-patch yielded 4-5 near-max roll GA items out of a dozen drops, including a perfect GA Ring—something nearly unimaginable before this update.
Returnee Rewards
The update also introduces the "Returnee Rewards" event. By creating or entering a standard Eternal character, players can access a quest. Completing this quest near the Kyovashad waypoint unlocks:
A set of Legendary gear (~item power 600)
Instant level boost to 50
Full map Renown (including Lilith Altars)
Completed class quests and basic crafting materials
While the pre-built gear sets are modest, these rewards are excellent for returning players or those leveling alts. Note that this feature is only available in Standard Eternal mode and not in Hardcore mode, as Blizzard aims to maintain the latter’s challenge.
Midwinter and Other Updates
The Midwinter event has returned with simpler mechanics. Players can claim up to four purses based on their level at Midwinter Ward in Kyovashad. These chests contain materials, Ancestral gear, and Unique items. Additionally, the event brings changes to Helltides, Dungeons, and Infernal Tides:
Butchers are replaced with "Red-Cloaked Horror," offering unique rewards upon defeat.
Helltide monsters are now Winter Festival-themed, dropping significant amounts of Aberrant Cinders.
The event-exclusive potion [Gileon’s Brew] drops, functioning like Seething Opal of Materials, useful for crafting.
Finally, from November 20-26, the "Blessing of Lilith" event grants players a 35% XP bonus and a 50% gold drop increase. This is an excellent time to grind for Paragon levels.