Diablo 5 Director Chris Wilson: Combat Focus Shifts to Build Composition

Chris Wilson, co-founder of Grinding Gear Games and original Path of Exile designer, has shared his thoughts on Diablo 5It's combat in a recent video. Wilson expressed concerns about the game's direction, citing a shift towards more arcadey and actioney combat.

However, he also emphasized the importance of build composition, stating that any challenge can be overcome with the right build. Wilson's comments come as Diablo 5 senior game director Joe Shely confirmed that the game will feature some DEX (moment-to-moment execution) mechanics. However, will be an INT/STR game (planning and investment) overall.

Wilson's concerns about the game's combat are not surprising, given his background in designing ARPGs. He has praised the original Diablo games for their build-centric combat, which he believes is essential to the series' success. Wilson's comments suggest that Diablo 5 may take a different approach, focusing more on action-like combat and less on build composition.

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However, he also emphasized the importance of iterating synergies between gear and abilities to make killing monsters easier and easier.

Diablo 5 senior game director Joe Shely confirmed that monster scaling will be ditched or dramatically scaled back in Diablo 5. This change is expected to make the world feel more uncompromising and dangerous.

Shely also mentioned that Diablo 4 seasons will continue after Diablo 5 launches, similar to Diablo 2 and 3.

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Diablo 5 is still in development, with a spring 2029 release window. The game takes place about 100 years after Diablo 4 and will feature a caravan of traveling companions instead of traditional towns and safe zones. The game's combat mechanics are still a mystery, and the ARPG community is eagerly awaiting more details.

Wilson's comments on Diablo 5's combat come as the game's release date approaches. While some fans may be concerned about the game's direction, Wilson's emphasis on build composition suggests that the game may still deliver on its promise of challenging and rewarding gameplay.