Blizzard has announced Diablo V for Spring 2029, and its story starts with Diablo already in control of Sanctuary. The announcement came during BlizzCon 2026, followed by the Diablo V: Forging the Next Era panel, where Blizzard shared more about the Heir to Westmarch, the first confirmed classes, and how Sanctuary has changed under Diablo’s rule.
Demon Hunter and Monk are coming back, joined by the new Plague Knight. Blizzard also outlined a travelling caravan, a Western Continent that can change when you revisit areas, and gear ideas inspired by Diablo II. The game is still early in development, with regular updates planned to begin in 2027.
Diablo Has Already Won When Diablo V Begins
Diablo isn’t being saved for the end of the story this time. He rules from Westmarch when Diablo V begins, and his influence is already changing Sanctuary around you.
You play as the Heir to Westmarch, fleeing what remains of a kingdom Diablo has turned into an outpost of Hell. There’s also a mysterious connection between the Heir and Diablo. Blizzard says that connection makes the Heir dangerous to him, but also vulnerable to his influence.
The Western Continent sits at the centre of the game’s world. Blizzard says terrain, points of interest, monsters, and rewards can change when you return to an area, giving Diablo’s control a direct effect on the places you travel through.
Demon Hunter and Monk Return With the New Plague Knight
Blizzard confirmed three classes during the panel. Demon Hunter and Monk are returning, and Plague Knight is new to the series. More classes are planned before launch, though Blizzard hasn’t announced the complete roster yet.
Travel also works differently now that towns and strongholds have been lost. The Heir moves through Sanctuary with a caravan of survivors who travel together across the wastes.
Those companions have their own stories and also act as vendors. Blizzard shared two examples during the panel, including a former Sister of the Sightless Eye and a stranded Treasure Goblin.
Diablo V Brings Back Runes, Runewords, and Stat Requirements
Blizzard is reaching back to Diablo II for Diablo V’s approach to gear. Items once again have stat requirements, and larger equipment takes up more inventory space. Runes, runewords, and gear sets are also returning.
Blizzard says it wants gear choices to be easier to understand and remember, with more meaning attached to what you find and keep. These are still early details, but they give a much clearer sense of the direction Diablo V is taking.
There’s still a long wait ahead. Blizzard plans to begin regular development updates in 2027 covering progress, design philosophy, and new features. Diablo V is currently scheduled for Spring 2029.
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