View source for Software:Diablo Immortal

{{Short description|2022 video game}}
{{Infobox video game
| title = Diablo Immortal
| image = Diablo Immortal App Logo.png
| developer = {{ubl|[[Company:Blizzard Entertainment|Blizzard Entertainment]]|[[Company:NetEase|NetEase]]}}
| publisher = Blizzard Entertainment
| platforms = {{ubl|[[Software:Android (operating system)|Android]]|[[Software:IOS|iOS]]|[[Software:Microsoft Windows|Windows]]}}
| released = {{vgrelease
|NA/EU/SA/OC/JP/KR|June 2, 2022
|SEA/HK/MAC/TW|July 8, 2022
|CHN|July 25, 2022
}}
| genre = {{ubl|[[Software:Action role-playing game|Action role-playing]]|[[Massively multiplayer online game|Massively multiplayer online]]}}
| modes = Multiplayer
| caption = 
| series = ''Diablo''
| alt = 
| director = Wyatt Cheng
}}

'''''Diablo Immortal''''' is a [[Finance:Free-to-play|free-to-play]], [[Massively multiplayer online game|massively multiplayer online]] [[Software:Action role-playing game|action role-playing]] video game developed by [[Company:Blizzard Entertainment|Blizzard Entertainment]] and [[Company:NetEase|NetEase]]. A [[Software:Mobile game|mobile game]] in the ''Diablo'' series, it is set between the events of ''[[Software:Diablo II|Diablo II]]'' and ''[[Software:Diablo III|Diablo III]]''. Players control a character of their chosen class: Barbarian, Wizard, Monk, Necromancer, Demon Hunter, Crusader, or Blood Knight; they must locate and destroy hidden shards of the Worldstone, to prevent Skarn, the Lord of Damnation, from destroying the world of Sanctuary.

Development of ''Diablo Immortal'' began with the aim of creating a ''Diablo'' game centered around [[Touch user interface|touch controls]] for those who predominantly played [[Software:Mobile game|on mobile]], but was later expanded to also support [[Engineering:Game controller|game controller]]s and [[Engineering:Personal computer|PC]]. The game incorporates a business model which allows players to unlock content through [[Finance:Microtransaction|microtransaction]]s, though almost all content can also be obtained through gameplay without paying.

The announcement of ''Diablo Immortal'' at BlizzCon in 2018 was met with a largely negative response from ''Diablo'' fans, who had anticipated a game designed for [[Engineering:Personal computer|PC]]. It was released on [[Software:Android (operating system)|Android]] and [[Software:IOS|iOS]] on June 2, 2022, for countries mainly outside of the [[Earth:Asia-Pacific|Asia-Pacific]] region, with a beta release for [[Software:Microsoft Windows|Windows]] on the same date. The game's Asia-Pacific release was delayed several days before its original date, with most releases taking place on July 8, 2022, and its {{wipe|China}} launch on July 25, 2022.

''Immortal'' received mixed reviews, with praise for its combat, graphics, and the adaption of ''Diablo'' to mobile, while criticism targeted the plot, voice acting, and the game's focus on microtransactions. It became the lowest user-rated game on Metacritic in response to microtransactions and the progression system. ''Immortal'' had the biggest launch in the franchise's history with over ten-million downloads, reaching 30 million downloads by the end of July 2022.

== Gameplay ==
=== Core gameplay ===
[[File:Diablo Immortal Gameplay Screenshot.png|alt=A player character with sword and shield hits a Skeletal Warrior enemy with an attack.|thumb|A Crusader fights an undead enemy in Ashwold Cemetery.]]
''Diablo Immortal'' is a [[Finance:Free-to-play|free-to-play]]<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|last=Gilliam|first=Ryan|date=December 17, 2020|title=Diablo Immortal is a real Diablo game, and its alpha starts today|url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/12/17/22178835/diablo-immortal-technical-alpha-details-release-date-blizzard|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210210195258/https://www.polygon.com/2020/12/17/22178835/diablo-immortal-technical-alpha-details-release-date-blizzard|archive-date=February 10, 2021|access-date=February 2, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":34">{{Cite web|last=Howard|first=Jessica|date=December 22, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal: Everything We Know|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-everything-we-know/1100-6499157/|url-status=live|access-date=December 27, 2021|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|archive-date=December 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227172642/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-everything-we-know/1100-6499157/}}</ref> [[Massively multiplayer online game|massively multiplayer online]] (MMO) [[Software:Action role-playing game|action role-playing game]] (ARPG),<ref name=":65">{{Cite web |last=Byrd |first=Matthew |date=June 6, 2022 |title=Why Diablo Immortal Does (and Doesn't) Deserve All the Hate |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/diablo-immortal-controversies-review-bombs-explained/ |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Den of Geek |language=en-US |archive-date=June 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220625172427/https://www.denofgeek.com/games/diablo-immortal-controversies-review-bombs-explained/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":15">{{cite web|last=Lumb|first=David|date=February 20, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal will be a mobile MMO, developers reveal at BlizzCon 2021|url=https://www.techradar.com/news/diablo-immortal-will-be-a-mobile-mmo-developers-reveal-at-blizzcon-2021|url-status=live|access-date=February 22, 2021|website=[[TechRadar]]|language=en|archive-date=February 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210222021449/https://www.techradar.com/news/diablo-immortal-will-be-a-mobile-mmo-developers-reveal-at-blizzcon-2021}}</ref><ref name=":19">{{cite web|last=Palumbo|first=Alessio|date=February 23, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal Q&A - Blizzard on Mobile Gameplay Benefits, Campaign Length, Guilds and Post-Launch Updates|url=https://wccftech.com/diablo-immortal-qa-blizzard-on-mobile-gameplay-benefits-campaign-length-guilds-and-post-launch-updates/|url-status=live|access-date=February 23, 2021|website=WCCF Tech|language=en-US|archive-date=February 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210223220709/https://wccftech.com/diablo-immortal-qa-blizzard-on-mobile-gameplay-benefits-campaign-length-guilds-and-post-launch-updates/}}</ref> designed initially for play on mobile devices.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web |last=Bains |first=Callum |date=May 15, 2022 |title=Why Diablo Immortal had to be a mobile game first |url=https://www.techradar.com/news/why-diablo-immortal-had-to-be-a-mobile-game-first |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=[[TechRadar]] |language=en |archive-date=May 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220516120958/https://www.techradar.com/news/why-diablo-immortal-had-to-be-a-mobile-game-first |url-status=live }}</ref> It is an online-only game, requiring an [[Internet|internet]] connection during play.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Dwan|first=Hannah|date=November 4, 2018|title=Diablo Immortal cannot be played offline|url=https://www.vg247.com/2018/11/04/diablo-immortal-online-only/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929222225/https://www.vg247.com/2018/11/04/diablo-immortal-online-only/|archive-date=September 29, 2020|access-date=August 30, 2020|website=VG247}}</ref> The game also features cross-save functionality, linking the player's progress to their [[Software:Battle.net|Battle.net account]] and allowing them to continue across multiple devices.<ref name=":30">{{Cite web|last=Lynch|first=Gerald|date=October 28, 2021|title=8 new Diablo Immortal features to know about ahead of the Android closed beta|url=https://www.techradar.com/uk/news/8-new-diablo-immortal-features-to-know-about-ahead-of-the-android-closed-beta|url-status=live|access-date=October 29, 2021|website=[[TechRadar]]|language=en|archive-date=October 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028154531/https://www.techradar.com/uk/news/8-new-diablo-immortal-features-to-know-about-ahead-of-the-android-closed-beta}}</ref><ref name=":44">{{Cite web |last=Tassi |first=Paul |date=May 27, 2022 |title='Diablo Immortal' Gets A Roadmap With Release Date And Launch Times |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2022/05/27/diablo-immortal-gets-a-roadmap-with-release-date-and-launch-times/ |access-date=May 28, 2022 |website={{wipe|Forbes}} |language=en |archive-date=May 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220527132453/https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2022/05/27/diablo-immortal-gets-a-roadmap-with-release-date-and-launch-times/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The fast-paced,<ref name=":1">{{cite web|last=Gilliam|first=Ryan|date=November 2, 2018|title=Diablo: Immortal feels like a Diablo game, just not one that's for me|url=https://www.polygon.com/blizzcon/2018/11/2/18057932/diablo-immortal-demo-blizzcon-mobile-impressions|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108120944/https://www.polygon.com/blizzcon/2018/11/2/18057932/diablo-immortal-demo-blizzcon-mobile-impressions|archive-date=November 8, 2020|access-date=February 2, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref> arcade-like<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|last=Lumb|first=David|date=April 29, 2021|title=I've played Diablo Immortal: how Blizzard's dark action RPG plays on smartphones|url=https://www.techradar.com/news/ive-played-diablo-immortal-how-blizzards-dark-action-rpg-plays-on-smartphones|url-status=live|access-date=May 4, 2021|website=[[TechRadar]]|language=en|archive-date=May 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210504154226/https://www.techradar.com/news/ive-played-diablo-immortal-how-blizzards-dark-action-rpg-plays-on-smartphones}}</ref> ''Immortal'' has many gameplay similarities to ''[[Software:Diablo III|Diablo III]]'' (such as destructible environments);<ref name=":24" /><ref name=":2">{{cite web|last=Good|first=Owen S.|date=November 2, 2018|title=Diablo fans call Diablo: Immortal a reskin of a free-to-play mobile game|url=https://www.polygon.com/mobile/2018/11/2/18057692/diablo-immortal-netease-mobile-game-crusaders-of-light-free-to-play|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181103112807/https://www.polygon.com/mobile/2018/11/2/18057692/diablo-immortal-netease-mobile-game-crusaders-of-light-free-to-play|archive-date=November 3, 2018|access-date=February 2, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":13">{{cite web|last=Welsh|first=Oli|date=December 17, 2020|title=Diablo Immortal enters alpha testing - and it seems great|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2020-12-17-diablo-immortal-enters-alpha-testing-and-it-seems-great|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210218120356/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2020-12-17-diablo-immortal-enters-alpha-testing-and-it-seems-great|archive-date=February 18, 2021|access-date=February 8, 2021|website=Eurogamer|language=en}}</ref> however, while it retains the vibrant art style of ''Diablo III'', the game's tone is closer to the more sombre style of ''[[Software:Diablo II|Diablo II]]''.<ref name=":24" /> It features the isometric graphic style common to games in the series.<ref name=":34"/><ref name=":7">{{cite web|last=Tassi|first=Paul|date=December 19, 2020|title='Diablo Immortal' Alpha Impressions: More Than A Meme|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2020/12/19/diablo-immortal-alpha-impressions-more-than-a-meme/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210205215234/https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2020/12/19/diablo-immortal-alpha-impressions-more-than-a-meme/|archive-date=February 5, 2021|access-date=February 3, 2021|website={{wipe|Forbes}}|language=en}}</ref>

Many of the game's activities are designed to be small in size (Blizzard advise that dungeons, though similar to those from the prior games,<ref name=":34"/> average 10–15 minutes in length,<ref name=":11">{{cite web|last=Mejia|first=Ozzie|date=December 17, 2020|title=Diablo Immortal begins rolling out technical alpha today|url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/121990/diablo-immortal-begins-rolling-out-technical-alpha-today|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204235315/https://www.shacknews.com/article/121990/diablo-immortal-begins-rolling-out-technical-alpha-today|archive-date=February 4, 2021|access-date=February 4, 2021|website=Shacknews|language=en}}</ref> with shorter activities lasting 1–5 minutes),<ref name=":15" /> so they can fit with the shorter play sessions common to mobile gaming;<ref name=":0" /> however, unlike many games in the free-to-play mobile space, ''Immortal'' does not feature an "energy" system to limit the amount of free play time available.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":16">{{cite web|last=Avard|first=Alex|date=February 19, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal preview: A competent dungeon crawler that can be enjoyed without thinking too hard|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-hands-on-preview/|url-status=live|access-date=February 22, 2021|website=GamesRadar+|language=en|archive-date=February 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210222073709/https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-hands-on-preview/}}</ref>

Players can create one or more characters to use within the game.<ref name=":14">{{cite web|last=Gilliam|first=Ryan|date=December 17, 2020|title=Diablo Immortal won't have Diablo 3-style seasons|url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/12/17/22180078/diablo-immortal-seasons-expansion-patches-updates|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126114610/https://www.polygon.com/2020/12/17/22180078/diablo-immortal-seasons-expansion-patches-updates|archive-date=January 26, 2021|access-date=February 15, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref> When creating a character, players select one of the game's six character classes: [[Social:Barbarian|Barbarian]], [[Unsolved:Magician (fantasy)|Wizard]], Monk, [[Unsolved:Necromancy|Necromancer]], Demon Hunter, and Crusader,<ref>{{Cite web|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|date=November 6, 2018|title=Diablo: Immortal is still early in development, but here's what we know|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/11/6/18060252/diablo-immortal-classes-faq-price-release-date|url-status=live|access-date=May 10, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en|archive-date=April 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428115319/https://www.polygon.com/2018/11/6/18060252/diablo-immortal-classes-faq-price-release-date}}</ref> each with 12 unlockable skills (from which the player chooses five to use concurrently).<ref name=":34"/><ref name=":16" /> For example, the Barbarian class's skills include slamming a hammer and turning into a whirlwind, whereas the Wizard's skills include a beam of electricity that boomerangs back to its source, dealing damage twice.<ref name=":1" /> "Charms" can also be acquired within the game and equipped to further increase skill effectiveness and change how they function.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":12">{{cite web|last1=Bricknell|first1=James|last2=Nash|first2=Anthony J|date=December 23, 2020|title=Diablo Immortal: Everything you need to know about the Technical Alpha|url=https://www.androidcentral.com/diablo-immortal|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210203170745/https://www.androidcentral.com/diablo-immortal|archive-date=February 3, 2021|access-date=February 5, 2021|website=Android Central}}</ref>

Unlike previous games in the series, ''Immortal'' features a "Class Change" system, by which players can change the class of an existing character and receive a new set of "appropriate" items without having to reset their progress (although focusing on a specific class may ultimately yield advantages, such as a broader range of available gameplay styles).<ref name=":37">{{Cite web |last=Good |first=Owen S. |date=March 28, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal players can change classes and keep progression |url=https://www.polygon.com/23000331/diablo-immortal-free-to-play-cosmetics-class-change-progression |access-date=March 29, 2022 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=March 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328214357/https://www.polygon.com/23000331/diablo-immortal-free-to-play-cosmetics-class-change-progression |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":38">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=March 28, 2022 |title=Blizzard Clarifies Diablo Immortal Release Date Listed On iOS |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/blizzard-clarifies-diablo-immortal-release-date-listed-on-ios |access-date=March 29, 2022 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=March 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328234208/https://www.ign.com/articles/blizzard-clarifies-diablo-immortal-release-date-listed-on-ios |url-status=live }}</ref> The class change option has no in-game or microtransaction cost; however players are limited to using it once per week for a given character.<ref name=":77">{{Cite web |last=Dinsdale |first=Ryan |date=July 20, 2022 |title=Diablo: Immortal Now Lets You Swap Class Once a Week |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-now-lets-you-swap-class-once-a-week |access-date=July 22, 2022 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=July 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220722051653/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-now-lets-you-swap-class-once-a-week |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":78">{{Cite web |last=Koch |first=Cameron |date=July 19, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Players Will Be Able To Change Classes Starting Tomorrow |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-players-will-be-able-to-change-classes-starting-tomorrow/1100-6505621/ |access-date=July 22, 2022 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=July 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220722214440/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-players-will-be-able-to-change-classes-starting-tomorrow/1100-6505621/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The game is designed primarily for [[Engineering:Touchscreen|touchscreen]] devices, with virtual controls that overlay the display: a directional thumbstick and skill buttons. Skills feature auto-aim<ref name=":13" /> (generally towards the nearest enemy),<ref name=":4">{{cite web|last=Grayson|first=Nathan|date=November 2, 2018|title=Diablo Immortal Is A Simplified Diablo—Maybe Too Simplified|url=https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-is-a-simplified-diablo-maybe-too-simpli-1830193187|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224070619/https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-is-a-simplified-diablo-maybe-too-simpli-1830193187|archive-date=February 24, 2021|access-date=February 2, 2021|website=Kotaku|language=en-us}}</ref> but the player can manually aim each skill by holding down its corresponding button.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":24" /> Some skills will also "charge" while their button is held, increasing aspects such as damage and area of effect.<ref name=":41" /> Alternatively, players can control the game using a connected [[Engineering:Gamepad|gamepad]]: movement and aiming are controlled with the analogue sticks; attacks, potions, and interactions are controlled by the front-facing buttons; and skills are triggered using the top bumpers & triggers (although these bindings can be changed in the game's settings).<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|last=Shea|first=Cam|date=October 28, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal's Closed Beta Launches Today... Complete With Controller Support|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-closed-beta-details-controller-support-necromancer|url-status=live|access-date=October 29, 2021|website=IGN|archive-date=October 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028191951/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-closed-beta-details-controller-support-necromancer}}</ref> When played using a mouse and keyboard, ''Immortal'' supports movement using the WASD keys (a first for [[Engineering:Personal computer|PC]] games in the series), allowing for movement with one hand alongside combat-based commands using the mouse.<ref name=":41" />

Unlike previous games in the ''Diablo'' series, mana and other class-specific resources have been removed from ''Immortal'', in favor of a [[Glossary of video game terms|cooldown]]-based system for skills (with typical cooldown times ranging from 8–12 seconds).<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":24" /> Performing attacks will also fill the character's "Ultimate meter", which, when filled, allows the use of more powerful attacks, amplifying the perks of the character's basic attack, for a limited time period.<ref name=":24" /><ref name=":0">{{Cite web|last=Shea|first=Cam|date=January 14, 2021|title=Why Diablo Immortal's Alpha Was a Hell of a Good Time|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/why-diablo-immortals-alpha-was-a-hell-of-a-good-time|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127183039/https://www.ign.com/articles/why-diablo-immortals-alpha-was-a-hell-of-a-good-time|archive-date=January 27, 2021|access-date=February 2, 2021|website=IGN}}</ref>

=== Rifts and other activities ===
Outside of the game's primary storyline missions, other activities include random quests which appear during exploration, "bounties" (such as defeating specific enemies or creating specific items), "challenge rifts" (randomly-generated, time-limited dungeons with ever-increasing levels of difficulty), and "elder rifts".<ref name=":8">{{cite magazine |last=Tack |first=Daniel |date=December 17, 2020 |title=Diablo Immortal Alpha Impressions |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/preview/2020/12/17/diablo-immortal-alpha-impressions |magazine=Game Informer |language=en |access-date=February 3, 2021}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Elder rifts are similar to challenge rifts, but can be modified using "crests" (available on a daily basis) and "legendary crests" for greater reward,<ref name=":11" /> the latter of which guarantee a "legendary" (i.e. top-level) gem upon completion.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Z. |date=June 28, 2022 |title=Make the most of Legendary Crests in Diablo Immortal |url=https://www.polygon.com/guides/23180579/diablo-immortal-legendary-crests-elder-rifts-gems |access-date=July 2, 2022 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702103433/https://www.polygon.com/guides/23180579/diablo-immortal-legendary-crests-elder-rifts-gems |url-status=live }}</ref>

The "Helliquary" is a feature which unlocks by player level 45.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |last=Shea |first=Cam |date=April 21, 2021 |title=Diablo Immortal's Team-Based PVP Endgame Cycle of Strife Revealed |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortals-team-based-pvp-endgame-cycle-of-strife-revealed |url-status=live |access-date=April 25, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=April 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424223343/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortals-team-based-pvp-endgame-cycle-of-strife-revealed }}</ref> Players gain the ability to hunt, trap,<ref name=":25">{{Cite magazine |last=Tack |first=Daniel |date=April 21, 2021 |title=Diablo Immortal Adds A Faction-Based PVP System, The Crusader, And The Helliquary |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/2021/04/21/diablo-immortal-adds-a-faction-based-pvp-system-the-crusader-and-the-helliquary |magazine=Game Informer |language=en |access-date=May 9, 2021}}</ref> and then defeat "boss demons" (each with a recommended offense and defence rating)<ref name=":31" /> as part of 8-player [[Software:Raid (video games)|raids]].<ref name=":31" /><ref name=":22" /><ref name=":23">{{Cite web |last=Yin-Poole |first=Wesley |date=April 21, 2021 |title=Diablo Immortal moves into closed alpha with the Crusader class and 48-player raids |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-04-21-diablo-immortal-moves-into-closed-alpha-with-the-crusader-class-and-48-player-raids |url-status=live |access-date=April 25, 2021 |website=Eurogamer |language=en |archive-date=April 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424224532/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-04-21-diablo-immortal-moves-into-closed-alpha-with-the-crusader-class-and-48-player-raids }}</ref> Defeating these enemies earns players trophies, which they can place within their Helliquary, granting permanent character bonuses.<ref name=":23" /> The development team intend for the game to introduce a new boss each month.<ref name=":22" />

In the "Legacy of the Horadrim", players are rewarded for completing specific in-game achievements with "vessels". These items can be inserted into a shrine under Westmarch to unlock character bonuses. Located close to the shrine is a daily-refreshing dungeon, which can be cleared to gain resources for enhancing the vessels to gain additional bonuses.<ref name=":31" />

=== Character progression ===
Through gameplay, characters earn [[Software:Experience point|experience point]]s, which allow them to increase their [[Software:Experience point#Level-based progression|level]]. As characters increase in level, they become more powerful, earning new skills and increasing the power of existing skills.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":13" /> Each character class has its own system of progression.<ref name=":11" />

Once a player's character has reached the game's level cap (which is 60 at launch,, though Blizzard has announced plans to increase this later),<ref name=":34"/><ref name=":19" /> they can achieve additional "paragon levels", which can be invested into one of four categories (each with their own [[Engineering:Technology tree|talent tree]] of 100 levels): Survivor (increasing odds of survival), Treasure Hunter (increased odds of finding gold and other in-game items), Vanquisher (increasing combat effectiveness against non-player enemies), and Gladiator (increasing combat effectiveness against other players). At paragon level 150, additional paragon trees are unlocked called Soldier (Party based PvP) and Mastermind (Party buffs that are enhanced when grouping with 4 separate classes).<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kobek|first=Patrick|date=January 3, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal Does Paragon Levels With A Twist|url=https://www.thegamer.com/diablo-immortal-paragon-levels/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210209033401/https://www.thegamer.com/diablo-immortal-paragon-levels/|archive-date=February 9, 2021|access-date=February 4, 2021|website=TheGamer|language=en-US}}</ref> Blizzard has stated that it plans to add additional paragon trees to the game following its initial release.<ref name=":34"/><ref name=":8" />

Towards the end of 2022, 3 more paragon specializations were released to players that was unlockable at a much higher paragon level. Massacre (Kill streak focused enhancements), Brawler (Defense bolstering party buffs), Duelist (Chaining skills together increasing damage). Duelist became a favorite among fans.

Higher paragon levels can also result in players finding items with higher statistics than the base versions.<ref name=":31" />

=== Loot system ===
[[File:Diablo Immortal Inventory Screenshot.png|alt=In-game menu, showing a model of the player character, the equipment slots available, and the items collected.|thumb|Inventory management for a character with equipment in each of the game's 13 item slots]]
Defeated enemies and opened [[Software:Power-up#Treasure chests|treasure chests]] drop items ("[[Software:Loot (video games)|loot]]"), and [[Software:Non-player character|NPCs]] sell similar items in exchange for the in-game currency of gold.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":12" /> Some loot items are also specific to particular enemies.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Gilliam|first=Ryan|date=November 4, 2018|title=Diablo: Immortal will have boss-specific loot drops, as well as a traditional Diablo loot system|url=https://www.polygon.com/interviews/2018/11/4/18060428/diablo-immortal-loot-system-boss-reward|url-status=live|access-date=May 9, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en|archive-date=November 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108125425/https://www.polygon.com/interviews/2018/11/4/18060428/diablo-immortal-loot-system-boss-reward}}</ref> These items can be equipped via a pop-up button or via the game's inventory screen.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":0" /> Such equipment can also be made more powerful by inserting "gems",<ref name=":13" /> and via the game's "rank up" system, which uses materials salvaged from other items to make "rare" and "legendary" level items more effective.<ref name=":0" /> Such ranks also be transferred from one item to another, ensuring that resources can be invested in progress even prior to acquiring a specific item.<ref name=":0" /> Once a legendary-level gem reaches rank 10, it can be used to "awaken" the item it's inserted into, resulting in improved bonuses and a new appearance (such as flames, or swirls of energy).<ref name=":31" /> Players can also use any additional legendary gems in their possession to "resonate" with others, increasing both their bonus and cosmetic effect.<ref name=":31" />

Players can also obtain items that belong to a set from specific locations in the game.<ref name=":31" /> Item sets in ''Immortal'' occupy the six "secondary" slots (hands, feet, neck, waist, and two rings).<ref name=":30" /> Equipping two, four, or six items from the same set yields additional bonuses that grant non-class-specific benefits, such as increased healing or extra damage dealt.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Irwin |first=Dave |date=July 1, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal set items list |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/set-items-locations |access-date=July 31, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 31, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220731175433/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/set-items-locations |url-status=live }}</ref>

In addition to items which change character statistics, the game also offers purely cosmetic items, which can be equipped to change the appearance of a character without altering gameplay. Some cosmetic items are available for specific factions to unlock for free by raising their "Dominance" statistic to specific levels.<ref name=":37" />

The game features a cross-player "marketplace" in which players can buy and sell materials and gems; however, to avoid repeating controversial issues from the "auction house" feature in ''Diablo III'', the marketplace does not allow purchase or trading of equipment items, which must be earned through gameplay.<ref name=":9">{{cite web|last=Gilliam|first=Ryan|date=December 17, 2020|title=Diablo Immortal will have a player marketplace, but not an 'auction house'|url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/12/17/22178945/diablo-immortal-marketplace-auction-house-gems-purchases|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210210130647/https://www.polygon.com/2020/12/17/22178945/diablo-immortal-marketplace-auction-house-gems-purchases|archive-date=February 10, 2021|access-date=February 4, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":10">{{cite web|last=Webster|first=Andrew|date=December 17, 2020|title=Diablo Immortal plays like, well, Diablo on your phone|url=https://www.theverge.com/22180377/diablo-immortal-iphone-android-technical-alpha-preview|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902135623/https://www.theverge.com/22180377/diablo-immortal-iphone-android-technical-alpha-preview|archive-date=September 2, 2023|access-date=February 4, 2021|website=[[The Verge]]|language=en}}</ref>

=== Multiplayer activities ===

==== MMO features ====
Although all of ''Immortal''<nowiki/>'s core activities can be completed by a solo player,<ref name=":13" /> in the style of other MMO games, players can encounter each other when exploring.<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":34"/> They can also form temporary parties of up to four players, or create more permanent "Warbands" of up to 8 players,<ref name=":36">{{Cite web |last=Koch |first=Cameron |date=February 23, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Still Coming In 2022, Will Receive Changes Based On Closed Beta Feedback |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-still-coming-in-2022-will-receive-changes-based-on-closed-beta-feedback/1100-6500956/ |access-date=February 26, 2022 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=February 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220226182906/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-still-coming-in-2022-will-receive-changes-based-on-closed-beta-feedback/1100-6500956/ |url-status=live }}</ref> to play through "dynamic events" together.<ref name=":34" /><ref name=":3">{{cite web |last=Farokhmanesh |first=Megan |date=November 2, 2018 |title=Diablo is getting a 'full-fledged' mobile RPG |url=https://www.theverge.com/2018/11/2/18056370/diablo-immortal-mobile-blizzard-blizzcon-2018 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224223141/https://www.theverge.com/2018/11/2/18056370/diablo-immortal-mobile-blizzard-blizzcon-2018 |archive-date=February 24, 2021 |access-date=February 2, 2021 |website=[[The Verge]] |language=en }}</ref> Warbands can also occupy and explore the "Castle Cyrangar" location together, to earn additional benefits.<ref name=":84">{{Cite web |last=Koch |first=Cameron |date=September 21, 2022 |title=First "Major" Diablo Immortal Update Will Turn Warband Camps Into Castles |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/first-major-diablo-immortal-update-will-turn-warband-camps-into-castles/1100-6507695/ |access-date=October 16, 2022 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=October 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221016184756/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/first-major-diablo-immortal-update-will-turn-warband-camps-into-castles/1100-6507695/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Some of the high-level in-game dungeons and enemies are designed specifically to be tackled by groups of players [[Software:Cooperative video game|cooperatively]].<ref name=":15" /><ref name=":13" /> These gameplay elements are similar to Blizzard's long-running MMO, ''[[Software:World of Warcraft|World of Warcraft]]''.<ref name=":13" />

The game also provides voice chat features, allowing players to communicate both with other members of their party, and with a broader range of players via "public" channels.<ref name=":15" /> ''Immortal'' also features clans for bringing together larger groups of players.<ref name=":15" /><ref name=":36" />

''Immortal'' supports [[Software:Cross-platform play|cross-platform-play]]; however, players must be on the same in-game server in order to interact.<ref name=":51">{{Cite web |last=Vikki |first=Blake |date=May 28, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal unveils a "roadmap to hell" to help "ensure a smooth full launch" |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-unveils-a-roadmap-to-hell-to-help-ensure-a-smooth-full-launch/ |access-date=June 3, 2022 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=June 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220603003142/https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-unveils-a-roadmap-to-hell-to-help-ensure-a-smooth-full-launch/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Sarah |first=James |date=May 30, 2022 |title=Everything you need to know about Diablo Immortal servers |language=en |work=PC Gamer |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-servers-list-down/ |access-date=June 3, 2022 |archive-date=June 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220603003142/https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-servers-list-down/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="TA" /> A player character can be transferred between servers for free on the first occasion, with each subsequent transfer requiring a one-off purchase (and a wait period of 30 days).<ref name=":87">{{Cite web |last=Harris |first=Iain |date=October 26, 2022 |title=After player uproar, Diablo Immortal finally offers server transfers |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/after-player-uproar-diablo-immortal-finally-offers-server-transfers/ |access-date=October 28, 2022 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=October 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027105641/https://www.gamesradar.com/after-player-uproar-diablo-immortal-finally-offers-server-transfers/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==== Player versus player combat ====
In addition to cooperative multiplayer elements, the game also features competitive [[Software:Player versus player|PVP]].<ref name=":15" /> For example, some areas of the game feature treasure chests which [[Software:Spawning (video games)|respawn]] on a timed basis and can only be opened by the last player left alive in the area.<ref name=":15" /> Another PVP feature is "Battleground", an 8 vs. 8 mode, with a player ranking system.<ref name=":31" /> The "attackers" are charged with—in order—destroying three "Sacred Guardians", escorting at least one of two "Zealous Idols", and destroying the other team's "Ancient Heart", with a separate time limit for each phase. The "defenders" win if they prevent any of those three tasks from being completed or tally enough opponent kills across all three phases.<ref name=":24" />

==== The "Cycle of Strife" ====
The "Cycle of Strife" is an optional PVP system open to all players who have reached ''Immortal's'' "endgame" phase. Each of the game's [[Server (computing)|servers]] allows up to 300 players within the "Immortals" faction, but an unlimited number of players to opt in as part of the "Shadows" faction.<ref name=":73">{{Cite web |last=Broadwell |first=Josh |date=June 8, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal endgame guide {{!}} Should you choose Shadows or Immortals? |url=https://www.vg247.com/diablo-immortal-shadows-or-immortals |access-date=July 4, 2022 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=July 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705190755/https://www.vg247.com/diablo-immortal-shadows-or-immortals |url-status=live }}</ref> The feature is entirely optional for players;<ref name=":25" /> any players who do not opt in during a specific cycle are simply designated "Adventurers" not affiliated with either group.<ref name=":22" /><ref name=":73" />

Shadows players attempt to displace the current ''Immortal'' players by changing their clans to "Dark Clans" and participating in the Shadows' activities.<ref name=":36" /> Immortals players also have designated activities, distinct from those of the Shadows. For example, Immortal players can participate in "Kion's Ordeal": a 48-player raid, with four groups of 12 players fighting four bosses simultaneously. Loot earned from elder rifts by Kion's Ordeal players is added to a vault, which gets handed out to Immortals players on a weekly basis. Shadows activities include "Raid the Vault", where 4 players attempt to steal from the Immortals' vault (beginning with [[Software:Player versus environment|PVE]] gameplay, until the Immortals send players to defend the vault).<ref name=":22" />

The "Wall of Honor", which is located in Westmarch for all players to view, details achievements of all Immortal faction leaders and their four lieutenants.<ref name=":23" />

Once the Shadows reach a sufficient level of progression, this will trigger "Rite of Exile" where the Dark Clans battle against each other.<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|last=Makar|first=Connor|date=October 29, 2021|title=The Diablo Immortal closed beta has gone live|url=https://www.vg247.com/diablo-immortal-closed-beta-live-multiple-gameplay-changes|url-status=live|access-date=October 29, 2021|website=VG247|language=en|archive-date=October 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029133211/https://www.vg247.com/diablo-immortal-closed-beta-live-multiple-gameplay-changes}}</ref> Victors from the Rite of Exile proceed to the "Challenge of the Immortal", whereby the top player from the Immortals is transformed into a boss (with powerful skills exclusive to that form), and must battle against the top 30 Shadow players in a 30 vs. 1 format.<ref name=":31" /><ref name=":32" /> If the Immortal player defeats all 30 Shadows, the structure of these factions remains unchanged; however, if the Shadows are victorious, all 30 players are resurrected and must battle against each other in a battle royale to determine which Dark Clan becomes the new Immortals faction (with the victorious player becoming the new top Immortal,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Lumb|first=David|date=October 28, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal lets you become the ultimate bad guy – the dungeon boss|url=https://www.techradar.com/au/news/diablo-immortal-lets-you-become-the-ultimate-bad-guy-the-dungeon-boss|url-status=live|access-date=October 30, 2021|website=[[TechRadar]]|language=en|archive-date=October 30, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211030195944/https://www.techradar.com/au/news/diablo-immortal-lets-you-become-the-ultimate-bad-guy-the-dungeon-boss}}</ref> all other players being returned to "Adventurer" designation), at which point a new cycle begins.<ref name=":31" /><ref name=":22" />

Cycles in the game are expected to last between one and three months.<ref name=":23" />

== Premise ==
Part of the ''Diablo'' series, ''Immortal'' takes place in the series' world of Sanctuary and is set 5 years after the events of ''Diablo II'', but prior to ''Diablo III''.<ref name=":11" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":51" /> Players begin their adventure in the town of Wortham,<ref name=":12" /> which is being threatened by cultists and the [[Unsolved:Undead|undead]].<ref name=":10" /> They learn from recurring ''Diablo'' character Deckard Cain that they must locate and destroy shards of the Worldstone across the world of Sanctuary in order to prevent a world-threatening disaster,<ref name=":10" /><ref name=":11" /> masterminded by the game's initial antagonist Skarn, the "Lord of Damnation."<ref name=":51" />

This journey continues into areas including the city of Westmarch (which serves as the game's main location for trade and social activities),<ref name=":17">{{cite web|last=Gregson-Wood|first=Stephen|date=February 20, 2020|title=Everything we've learned about Diablo Immortal from BlizzCon 2021|url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/085792/everything-you-need-to-know-about-diablo-immortal/|url-status=live|access-date=February 22, 2021|website=Pocket Gamer|language=en|archive-date=March 2, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302135528/https://www.pocketgamer.com/articles/085792/everything-you-need-to-know-about-diablo-immortal/}}</ref><ref name=":13" /> Ashworld Cemetery,<ref name=":11" /> Dark Wood,<ref name=":11" /> the Shassar Sea,<ref name=":11" /> Mount Zavain (location of the Sanctified Earth Monastery),<ref name=":22" /> the Frozen Tundra (populated by Barbarian tribes),<ref name=":22" /> and the Stormpoint prison island.<ref name=":89">{{Cite web |last=Koch |first=Cameron |date=December 12, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Terror's Tide Update Continues The Game's Main Story |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-terrors-tide-update-continues-the-games-main-story/1100-6509964/ |access-date=December 16, 2022 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=December 15, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221215224000/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-terrors-tide-update-continues-the-games-main-story/1100-6509964/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Other aspects of the game's plot focus on conflict between the "Immortals" (a group dedicated to the protection of Sanctuary) and the "Shadows" (a secret group established to test the Immortals) in what is known as the "Cycle of Strife". In the words of the game's principal designer, Scott Shicoff:<ref name=":22" /><blockquote>"A long time ago, there was a powerful individual called Daedessa the Builder... she wanted to protect Sanctuary from demonic invasion but she wasn't a fighter. She was, however, a master crafter, and she created a powerful artifact called the Eternal Crown. She gave it to her son Kion... and charged him with forming a group whose sole purpose would be the protection of Sanctuary from the Burning Hells. Kion took this powerful artifact and created a guardian group which he called the Immortals.<ref name=":22" />

"Daedessa knew that power, especially that kind of power, can lead to complacency and corruption for even the best or most well-intentioned individuals like her son. So she gave her daughter Akeba a secret heavy burden. It would be Akeba's job to make sure that the Immortals would never falter or waver. That they were always worthy and capable of defending Sanctuary, as they were charged. So working in secret, Akeba found those brave enough to help her constantly test and challenge the Immortals. They would look for cracks and weaknesses and they would do everything they could to make sure the elite defenders of Sanctuary were always up to the task. She called this group the Shadows.<ref name=":22" />

"And should the Shadows ever prove stronger and more capable, they would overthrow the current reign and take up the Eternal Crown as the new Immortals. Which, of course, they eventually did, with Akeba becoming the next Immortal. But Akeba could never get too comfortable because she knew that as she rose up, so too would new Shadows to make sure she was always worthy of her station. And thus the Cycle of Strife was born."<ref name=":22" /></blockquote>

== Business model ==

=== Microtransactions ===
Although free-to-play, ''Immortal'' features in-game [[Finance:Microtransaction|microtransaction]]s using real-world currencies.<ref name=":42">{{Cite web |last=Gerblick |first=Jordan |date=May 25, 2022 |title=Blizzard says Diablo Immortal's microtransactions "never circumvent core gameplay" |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/blizzard-says-diablo-immortals-microtransactions-never-circumvent-core-gameplay/ |access-date=May 27, 2022 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=May 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220527005512/https://www.gamesradar.com/blizzard-says-diablo-immortals-microtransactions-never-circumvent-core-gameplay/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Blizzard has stated that these transactions are optional, and not required in order to access any core gameplay.<ref name=":42" /><ref name=":52">{{Cite web |last=Makar |first=Connor |date=May 30, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal devs believe in a free to play experience, the mobile platform, and elderflower cocktails |url=https://www.vg247.com/diablo-immortal-microtransactions-mobile-interview |access-date=June 3, 2022 |website=VG247 |language=en |archive-date=June 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220603003143/https://www.vg247.com/diablo-immortal-microtransactions-mobile-interview |url-status=live }}</ref> According to ''Diablo'' general manager Rod Fergusson, "You can play every aspect of this game for free. You can play the entire campaign for free, you can play raids and the Cycle of Strife and everything, for free. And we're going to support it with new zones and dungeons and new character classes post-launch for free."<ref name=":42" /> Mike Ybarra, president of Blizzard, slightly amended this statement, saying that players "can literally do 99.5% of everything in the game" without spending real money.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 6, 2022 |title=Blizzard's new boss wants to have fun with games. But first, his company is in a crisis |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2022-07-06/blizzard-mike-ybarra-navigates-controversy-changing-gaming-culture |access-date=August 27, 2022 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US |archive-date=August 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220826233643/https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2022-07-06/blizzard-mike-ybarra-navigates-controversy-changing-gaming-culture |url-status=live }}</ref>

The in-game marketplace's currency of "platinum" can be obtained through free gameplay and the selling of materials, or via in-game purchase (though there is not an option to convert this back into currency outside of the game).<ref name=":9" /><ref name=":10" /> Other in-game purchases, such as the "Boon of Plenty" (which has a fixed monthly limit), can  be used to acquire the in-game currency of "eternal orbs" (a premium in-game currency used to purchase items such as cosmetics and platinum)<ref name=":50">{{Cite news |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=September 2, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal players are facing massive 'orb debt' after Blizzard cracks down on resellers |language=en |work=PC Gamer |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-players-are-facing-massive-orb-debt-after-blizzard-cracks-down-on-resellers/ |access-date=September 19, 2022 |archive-date=September 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220920171705/https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-players-are-facing-massive-orb-debt-after-blizzard-cracks-down-on-resellers/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":54">{{Cite web |last=Gach |first=Ethan |date=September 12, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Community Faces New Unrest Over Ill-Gotten Orbs, Lack Of Bans [Update] |url=https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-buy-cheap-eternal-orbs-scam-ban-1849525793 |access-date=September 19, 2022 |website=Kotaku |language=en-us |archive-date=September 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220920172902/https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-buy-cheap-eternal-orbs-scam-ban-1849525793 |url-status=live }}</ref> and "legendary crests" (items used to improve the volume and rarity of  rewards gained when completing "rift" dungeons; such as "legendary gems", for improving equipment).<ref name=":43" /><ref name=":59">{{Cite news |last=Martin |first=Sean |date=June 8, 2022 |title=How to get gems in Diablo Immortal |language=en |work=PC Gamer |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-gems-legendary-normal/ |access-date=June 11, 2022 |archive-date=June 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220611045435/https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-gems-legendary-normal/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The legendary crest system has been classified as a "[[Loot box|loot box]]" process, because of the random nature of their rewards.<ref name=":62">{{Cite news |last=Blake |first=Vikki |date=June 5, 2022 |title=It costs £88,000 to fully upgrade your character in Diablo Immortal |language=en-gb |work=Eurogamer |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/it-costs-88000-to-fully-upgrade-your-character-in-diablo-immortal |access-date=June 11, 2022 |archive-date=June 19, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220619140758/https://www.eurogamer.net/it-costs-88000-to-fully-upgrade-your-character-in-diablo-immortal |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Dinsdale |first=Ryan |date=June 6, 2022 |title=Diablo: Immortal Players Are Upset Over the Game's Microtransactions |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-players-upset-over-microtransactions |access-date=June 11, 2022 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=June 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220610054129/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-players-upset-over-microtransactions |url-status=live }}</ref>

As an alternative to microtransactions, players can also earn "Telluric Pearls" through in-game rewards, then use them to craft powerful "5-star" legendary gems.<ref name=":85">{{Cite web |last=Dinsdale |first=Ryan |date=October 12, 2022 |title=Diablo: Immortal Adds a Way to Earn Its End-Game Content Instead of Just Buying It |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-adds-a-way-to-earn-its-end-game-content-instead-of-just-buying-it |access-date=October 16, 2022 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=October 15, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221015174428/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-adds-a-way-to-earn-its-end-game-content-instead-of-just-buying-it |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Battle pass system ===
In addition to level-based progressions, the game also features a [[Finance:Battle pass|Battle Pass]] reward system, which grants significant experience points, making it a way to speed up character progression (especially during the end-game content, once players have reached the level cap).<ref name=":60">{{Cite web |date=June 6, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal: How To Grind To Level 60 {{!}} Endgame Farming Guide |url=https://gameranx.com/features/id/311950/article/diablo-immortal-how-to-grind-to-level-60-endgame-farming-guide/ |access-date=June 11, 2022 |website=Gameranx |language=en-US |archive-date=June 6, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220606200848/https://gameranx.com/features/id/311950/article/diablo-immortal-how-to-grind-to-level-60-endgame-farming-guide/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The battle pass is leveled up by completing activities such as bounties, dungeons, and rifts.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tassi |first=Paul |date=June 3, 2022 |title=Here's When You'll Hit The 'Diablo Immortal' XP Wall, And How To Get Past It |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2022/06/03/heres-when-youll-hit-the-diablo-immortal-xp-wall-and-how-to-get-past-it/ |access-date=June 4, 2022 |website={{wipe|Forbes}} |language=en |archive-date=June 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604011528/https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2022/06/03/heres-when-youll-hit-the-diablo-immortal-xp-wall-and-how-to-get-past-it/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It is tied to seasons, within which there are both free and paid tiers available,<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":52" /> with the paid tier focusing on additional opportunities to earn in-game currencies.<ref name=":16" />

Blizzard confirmed that seasons which encourage players to create a new character each time (as seen in ''Diablo III'') are not planned for ''Immortal'', which will focus instead on the concept of players retaining a single long-term character.<ref name=":14" />

== Development ==
[[File:Wyatt Cheng at BlizzCon 2009.jpg|thumb|upright|Lead director Wyatt Cheng]]

=== Initial development ===
''Immortal'' was co-developed by Blizzard Entertainment and NetEase,<ref name=":3" /> the latter being Blizzard's partner for Chinese market releases.<ref name=":2" /> Blizzard intended to bring the core ''Diablo'' experience to the [[Engineering:Smartphone|smartphone]] platform, making interface design choices to best fit that experience to the medium,<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|date=November 3, 2018|title=Blizzard responds to Diablo: Immortal backlash|url=https://www.polygon.com/blizzcon/2018/11/3/18059222/diablo-immortal-blizzard-response-blizzcon|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181104012013/https://www.polygon.com/blizzcon/2018/11/3/18059222/diablo-immortal-blizzard-response-blizzcon|archive-date=November 4, 2018|access-date=February 2, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref> including gameplay concepts that were unavailable to prior ''Diablo'' titles.<ref name=":41" /> By designing for a smartphone gaming audience, ''Immortal'' was intended to reach demographics and geographic regions that use mobile phones as their primary gaming platform, and therefore may not otherwise interact with ''Diablo'' in other formats.<ref name=":5" /> The game's director, Wyatt Cheng,<ref name=":45">{{Cite news |last=Park |first=Gene |date=May 26, 2022 |title='Diablo Immortal' aims to be a breakthrough hit for AAA mobile games |language=en-US |newspaper={{wipe|The Washington Post}} |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/video-games/2022/05/26/diablo-immortal-release-mobile-pc/ |access-date=May 28, 2022 |issn=0190-8286 |archive-date=July 6, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706153426/https://www.washingtonpost.com/video-games/2022/05/26/diablo-immortal-release-mobile-pc/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and its senior combat designer, Julian Love, both worked previously on ''Diablo III'', and included elements to ''Immortal'' which they were not able to include within its predecessor.<ref name=":41" />

The game was first announced during the opening ceremony of BlizzCon in November 2018,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Pereira|first=Chris|date=November 2, 2018|title=Diablo Immortal, A New RPG, Announced For Mobile At BlizzCon 2018|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-a-new-rpg-announced-for-mobile-at-/1100-6462978/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210206182952/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-a-new-rpg-announced-for-mobile-at-/1100-6462978/|archive-date=February 6, 2021|access-date=February 2, 2021|website=GameSpot|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last1=Welsh|first1=Oli|date=November 2, 2018|title=There's an all-new Diablo game called Diablo Immortal|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-11-02-theres-an-all-new-diablo-game-called-diablo-immortal|access-date=November 4, 2018|work=Eurogamer|language=en|archive-date=November 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181112181705/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-11-02-theres-an-all-new-diablo-game-called-diablo-immortal|url-status=live}}</ref> where the release platforms were confirmed as [[Software:Android (operating system)|Android]] and [[Software:IOS|iOS]],<ref name=":2" /> with [[Software:Cross-platform play|cross-platform play]] and progression carry-over between the two.<ref name=":19" /> Blizzard also announced plans to keep the ''Immortal'' experience fresh after its initial release with the regular addition of stories and characters.<ref name=":3" /> Shortly after the game's announcement, Blizzard began allowing players to pre-register on the game's website for admission to [[Playtest|playtest]] the future [[Software release life cycle#Beta|beta version]].<ref name=":3" />

In February 2019, NetEase's [[Social:Chief financial officer|CFO]], Yang Zhaoxuan, stated that the game was "pretty much ready" and still planned for a 2019 release; however, he also stated that Blizzard would be the ones to determine the exact release timetable.<ref>{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=February 21, 2019|title=NetEase Quashes Talk of Chinese Gaming Approval Suspensions|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-02-21/netease-quashes-talk-of-chinese-gaming-approval-suspensions|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327164254/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-02-21/netease-quashes-talk-of-chinese-gaming-approval-suspensions|archive-date=March 27, 2019|access-date=March 27, 2019|website={{wipe|Bloomberg News}}}}</ref> In November 2019, during BlizzCon, Blizzard posted an update on its official blog, confirming that ''Immortal'' was still in development; however, it stated that there was still no specific release date for the game, because "It takes significant time to meet the Blizzard quality level we're aiming for, and we have a lot of ambitious goals for ''Diablo Immortal''." Additional details confirmed in the post included that the game would feature six playable classes (Barbarian, Crusader, Demon Hunter, Monk, Necromancer, and Wizard) and chargeable, class-specific 'ultimate' abilities.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Boyle|first=Emma|date=November 2, 2019|title=BlizzCon brings new Diablo Immortal details|url=https://www.techradar.com/news/blizzcon-brings-new-diablo-immortal-details|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191105135336/https://www.techradar.com/news/blizzcon-brings-new-diablo-immortal-details|archive-date=November 5, 2019|access-date=November 23, 2019|website=[[TechRadar]]|language=en}}</ref>

At the start of August 2020, at ChinaJoy, Blizzard and NetEase released a new gameplay trailer for ''Immortal'', showcasing each of the six playable classes, and featuring the first appearance of Baal, one of the main antagonists from ''Diablo II'' and its expansion, ''[[Software:Diablo II: Lord of Destruction|Lord of Destruction]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Gilliam|first=Ryan|date=August 3, 2020|title=Blizzard shows off new Diablo Immortal gameplay|url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/8/3/21350043/diablo-immortal-gameplay-video-chinajoy-blizzard-netease-baal-gameplay|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814124253/https://www.polygon.com/2020/8/3/21350043/diablo-immortal-gameplay-video-chinajoy-blizzard-netease-baal-gameplay|archive-date=August 14, 2020|access-date=August 14, 2020|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref> The trailer also revealed improvements to the game's graphics and character models, which had been implemented since the release of previous promotional material.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Morics|first=Peter|date=August 2, 2020|title=Diablo: Immortal's New Gameplay Trailer Shows Off Improved Graphics|url=https://screenrant.com/diablo-immortal-gameplay-trailer-graphics-models-chinajoy-2020/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927070555/https://screenrant.com/diablo-immortal-gameplay-trailer-graphics-models-chinajoy-2020/|archive-date=September 27, 2020|access-date=August 18, 2020|website=Screen Rant|language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Public alpha testing ===
A "very limited" public [[Software release life cycle|alpha]] demo of the game took place from December 2020 until January 2021, featuring its first 45 character levels and four of the six playable classes.<ref name=":13" /><ref name=":15" /> The alpha was released specifically for players in {{wipe|Australia}} on Android devices;<ref name=":17" /><ref name=":7" /> however, some media outlets were also given access.<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":13" /> Character progression from the alpha cannot be carried over into the full game.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Tassi|first=Paul|date=December 27, 2020|title=At This Point, Expect 'Diablo Immortal' To Be A Massive Hit For Blizzard|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2021/12/27/at-this-point-expect-diablo-immortal-to-be-a-massive-hit-for-blizzard/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902135633/https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2021/12/27/at-this-point-expect-diablo-immortal-to-be-a-massive-hit-for-blizzard/|archive-date=September 2, 2023|access-date=February 11, 2021|website={{wipe|Forbes}}|language=en}}</ref> During a question & answers session at BlizzConline (an online-only version of BlizzCon, due to the COVID-19 pandemic) in February 2021, the development team confirmed that the game's next phase would be an additional alpha, likely featuring the game's full launch level cap (60 levels),<ref name=":19" /> additional story elements,<ref name=":19" /> and all six playable classes.<ref name=":15" /> During this discussion, the team also confirmed that they were working to bring [[Engineering:Game controller|game controller]] support to ''Immortal'', alongside its on-screen virtual controls, and that they plan to introduce additional classes and locations (all free for every player) after the game's initial release.<ref name=":15" />

In further February 2021 interviews, development team members stated that although they remained focused on mobile platforms, they were "not necessarily going to block" efforts by others to [[Emulator|emulate]] it on other devices.<ref>{{cite web|last=Dedmon|first=Tanner|date=February 25, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal Team Is "Not Necessarily Going to Block" Emulation|url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/diablo-immortal-emulation/|url-status=live|access-date=March 18, 2021|website=ComicBook|language=en|archive-date=September 2, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902135638/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/diablo-immortal-emulation/}}</ref> They also confirmed the game to be based on a brand new engine, not used for any previous NetEase games, with the same quality standards as other Blizzard-developed games:<ref name=":20">{{cite web|last=Reeves|first=Brianna|date=February 24, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal Is NOT a NetEase Reskin|url=https://screenrant.com/diablo-immortal-netease-reskin-not-blizzard-entertainment/|url-status=live|access-date=March 18, 2021|website=Screen Rant|archive-date=September 2, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902135643/https://screenrant.com/diablo-immortal-netease-reskin-not-blizzard-entertainment/}}</ref><blockquote>"Game development at Blizzard is all about making sure that we ask ourselves the questions, like 'is this good enough?' That's sometimes why it takes a long time for us to make what we make ... [NetEase] completely subscribe to our commitment to quality, which was a pre-requisite to having this partnership ... This is an engine that NetEase is using for the first time. It wasn't [used for] any of those previous games people are comparing it to. It's being built from scratch on a new engine, and it's not a re-skin of Diablo III ... It is a wholly new game that we've built."<ref name=":20" /></blockquote>The team also revealed how they had made player feedback a core component of the alpha test, implementing a system which allowed them to look at all of the feedback submitted through the in-game feedback tool:<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|last=Gravelle|first=Cody|date=February 25, 2021|title=How Feedback Changed Diablo Immortal According To Blizzard|url=https://screenrant.com/diablo-immortal-changes-feedback-blizzard-fans/amp/|url-status=live|access-date=March 18, 2021|website=Screen Rant|language=en-US|archive-date=September 2, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902135649/https://screenrant.com/diablo-immortal-changes-feedback-blizzard-fans/}}</ref><blockquote>"At the end of our Technical Alpha, we looked at every single piece of feedback we got ... We basically did a summit where we had all the team on a [[Software:Zoom|Zoom]], and I was sharing my screen, and we just went line-by-line ... In the end, we do have to make a judgment call, but we really do value that kind of feedback, especially when we see clear trends over multiple players. And we're also looking at [[Company:Reddit|Reddit]] and other community channels to get anecdotes and other feedback from there, as well."<ref name=":21" /></blockquote>An example given of changes made in response to this feedback was how the team had strengthened the wizard class's ice-based attacks, to support ways in which players wanted to use these skills, and address concerns that the class was "underpowered".<ref name=":21" />

In April 2021, ''Immortal'' entered a new closed alpha test, also limited specifically to Android players in Australia.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Peppiatt|first=Dom|date=April 22, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal closed alpha kicks off with new class|url=https://www.vg247.com/2021/04/22/diablo-immortal-closed-alpha-android/|access-date=April 25, 2021|website=VG247|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Marshall|first=Cass|date=April 21, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal starts a new alpha test full of endgame content|url=https://www.polygon.com/22396474/diablo-immortal-closed-alpha-new-endgame-content-crusader|access-date=April 25, 2021|website=Polygon|language=en}}</ref> The new test featured addition of the game's Crusader class, a raise of the character level cap to 55 (compared to 60 from the full game), and introduction of the "Cycle of Strife" feature (with the alpha lasting "at least a month" to allow sufficient testing of this new gameplay element).<ref name=":22" /> At the beginning of this second alpha, the game's director, Wyatt Cheng, confirmed that there would be a minimum of one further testing phase (with the full level cap of 60) before the game's release.<ref name=":22" />

During its first quarter financial earnings release in May 2021, parent company [[Company:Activision Blizzard|Activision Blizzard]] confirmed ''Immortal'' to be "on track for global release later [in 2021]," although no specific release window for the game was stated;<ref>{{Cite web|last=Winslow|first=Jeremy|date=May 5, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal Confirmed For 2021 Global Release|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-confirmed-for-2021-global-release/1100-6491014/|url-status=live|access-date=May 9, 2021|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|archive-date=September 2, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140347/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-confirmed-for-2021-global-release/1100-6491014/}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Reeves|first=Brianna|date=May 5, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal Is On Track For 2021 Release|url=https://screenrant.com/diablo-immortal-release-date-2021-confirmed/|url-status=live|access-date=May 9, 2021|website=Screen Rant|language=en-US|archive-date=May 10, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210510142454/https://screenrant.com/diablo-immortal-release-date-2021-confirmed/}}</ref> however, in August 2021, Blizzard announced that the game had been delayed until the first half of 2022.<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|last=Bankhurst|first=Adam|date=August 3, 2021|title=Activision Blizzard Offers Updates on Key Game Releases Like Overwatch 2 and Diablo Immortal|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-overwatch-2-delay-legal-scandal-lawsuit-activision-blizzard-updates-key-game-releases|url-status=live|access-date=August 3, 2021|website=IGN|archive-date=August 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210803220634/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-overwatch-2-delay-legal-scandal-lawsuit-activision-blizzard-updates-key-game-releases}}</ref> The update indicated that the delay was to allow more time for gameplay improvements following alpha testing feedback, such as making the Cycle of Strife feature "more accessible", making the Helliquary and bounties "more engaging", adding controller support, and making alterations to character progression systems.<ref name=":29" />

=== Public beta testing ===
A closed beta version of ''Immortal'' launched on October 28, 2021, with an intended duration of "just under three months",<ref name=":32" /> solely for Android players in Australia and {{wipe|Canada}} (expanding in the weeks after to [[Place:Korea|Korea]], {{wipe|Japan}}, and {{wipe|China}}).<ref name=":31" /> This new version of the game added in the Necromancer class (the final of the game's planned launch classes), a new "Hell IV" difficulty level (with improved rewards for higher difficulties), the "Legacy of the Horadrim" feature, and the first iteration of game controller support (a work-in-progress "early test" version of the feature, supporting character movement and combat via a limited range of controllers, but requiring players to navigate menus using the touchscreen).<ref name=":31" /><ref name=":32" /> Additional gameplay systems added in the beta included "awakening" and "resonance" for legendary gems, and item sets.<ref name=":31" /><ref name=":30" />

The beta also added a player ranking system and corresponding rewards to the 8 vs. 8 "Battlegrounds" mode, and significantly changed the end of the "Cycle of Strife", shifting it from a series of 8 vs. 8 battles (featuring the strongest eight members of the top ten Dark Houses against the best players within the Immortals) to a new system called "Challenge of the Immortal": a 30 vs. 1 battle centred around the top Immortal player.<ref name=":31" /> The structure of the "Helliquary" feature was also changed: these enemies, which could previously be defeated by solo players, were changed to 8-player raid events, with a strong focus on teamwork.<ref name=":31" />

In-game purchases were made available for the first time during the beta. Although any purchases made during the beta will not carry over to the full version, players making purchases during the beta were to receive equal credits back to their account once the testing period completes.<ref name=":31" /><ref>{{Cite web|last=Pereira|first=Chris|date=October 28, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal Closed Beta Test Starts Today, Adds Necromancer And More|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-closed-beta-test-starts-today-adds-necromancer-and-more/1100-6497499/|url-status=live|access-date=October 29, 2021|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|archive-date=October 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028175217/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-closed-beta-test-starts-today-adds-necromancer-and-more/1100-6497499/}}</ref>

In February 2022 (following completion of the beta in January), game director Wyatt Cheng and senior system designer Kris Zierhut posted on the game's official website stating that they would be making multiple additional changes based on player feedback.<ref name=":35">{{Cite web|last=Sholtz|first=Matthew|date=February 23, 2022|title=Blizzard's Diablo Immortal beta has apparently been quite the learning experience|url=https://www.androidpolice.com/blizzards-diablo-immortal-beta-has-apparently-been-quite-the-learning-experience/amp/|access-date=February 25, 2022|website=Android Police|language=en-US|archive-date=February 24, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220224090318/https://www.androidpolice.com/blizzards-diablo-immortal-beta-has-apparently-been-quite-the-learning-experience/amp/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":36" /> These changes included shifting bounties to single-player experiences (to avoid players feeling like groups were forced together), balancing the difficulty of "Helliquary" raid bosses, refining controller support, finalizing the "Paragon" system (to prevent players progressing too quickly ahead of others), and re-evaluating the "Boon of Plenty" micro-transaction to increase its value.<ref name=":35" /><ref name=":36" /><ref name=":43">{{Cite web|last=Sterling Cyre|first=Clayton|date=February 24, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal Will Change Boon of Plenty After Beta Feedback|url=https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-will-change-boon-of-plenty-after-beta-feedback/|access-date=February 25, 2022|website=Game Rant|language=en-US|archive-date=February 24, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220224233624/https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-will-change-boon-of-plenty-after-beta-feedback/|url-status=live}}</ref> Further changes were also announced for the Cycle of Strife (with additional changes to be announced later), including the consolidation of clans and "Dark Houses" into a single entity (describing the existence of separate, temporary social groups a "a jarring upheaval to your social system and network of players").<ref name=":36" /> The post reiterated a target launch for the game at some stage in 2022.<ref name=":35" /><ref name=":36" />

== Release ==
On March 28, 2022, Blizzard commenced iOS pre-orders for ''Immortal'' (to match Android pre-registrations, which had already gone live),<ref name=":39">{{Cite web |last=Madnani |first=Mikhail |date=March 28, 2022 |title='Diablo Immortal' Pre-Orders Are Now Live on iOS, June 30th Release Date Listed on the App Store |url=https://toucharcade.com/2022/03/28/diablo-immortal-release-date-ios-preregistration-reward-cosmetics-app-store-android-google-play-blizzard/ |access-date=March 28, 2022 |website=TouchArcade |language=en-US |archive-date=March 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328173526/https://toucharcade.com/2022/03/28/diablo-immortal-release-date-ios-preregistration-reward-cosmetics-app-store-android-google-play-blizzard/ |url-status=live }}</ref> with a new trailer showcasing exclusive in-game "Horadrim" cosmetics that would be made available to all players (provided that they complete the tutorial within 30 days of launch)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Boxberger |first=Darryl |date=March 28, 2022 |title=App Store preorders for 'Diablo Immortal' now open |url=https://appleinsider.com/articles/22/03/28/app-store-preorders-for-diablo-immortal-now-open |access-date=March 29, 2022 |website=AppleInsider |language=en |archive-date=March 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220329001015/https://appleinsider.com/articles/22/03/28/app-store-preorders-for-diablo-immortal-now-open |url-status=live }}</ref> if the game reached 30 million pre-registrations before release.<ref name=":37" /> The corresponding App Store listing for the game specified a release date of June 30, 2022;<ref name=":39" /> however, later the same day, Blizzard clarified that this was only a placeholder date while they "lock in" plans for the game's release.<ref name=":38" /> During this time period, Blizzard also revealed that the game would allow players to change the class of an existing character without losing their prior progress.<ref name=":38" /><ref name=":37" />

On April 25, 2022, Blizzard shared a new trailer for ''Immortal'', announcing its release date of June 2, 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lyles |first=Taylor |date=April 25, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal is launching on Android, iOS, and PC on June 2nd |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/25/22285442/diablo-immortal-android-ios-pc-release-date |access-date=April 25, 2022 |website=[[The Verge]] |language=en |archive-date=April 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220425115102/https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/25/22285442/diablo-immortal-android-ios-pc-release-date |url-status=live }}</ref> As part of this announcement, they also unveiled that an open beta for Windows versions of the game would begin on the same date (with all of the mobile version's content and features, plus all progress and purchases carrying over to the full version).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=April 25, 2022 |title='Diablo: Immortal' is coming to mobile and (surprise!) PC on June 2nd |url=https://www.engadget.com/diablo-immortal-pc-mobile-release-date-143501116.html |access-date=April 25, 2022 |website=[[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] |language=en-US |archive-date=April 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220425144004/https://www.engadget.com/diablo-immortal-pc-mobile-release-date-143501116.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":40" /> It was confirmed that full cross-play and cross-save support would exist across these platforms.<ref name=":40">{{Cite web |last=Goslin |first=Austen |date=April 25, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal now coming to PC along with mobile this June |url=https://www.polygon.com/23040721/diablo-immortal-pc-mobile-release-date-crossplay |access-date=April 25, 2022 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=April 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220425120523/https://www.polygon.com/23040721/diablo-immortal-pc-mobile-release-date-crossplay |url-status=live }}</ref> Blizzard also released a statement regarding their decision to release the game on PC, despite previously stating it would be mobile exclusive:<blockquote>"On one hand, we felt that we wouldn't be doing the title justice by releasing a game originally designed for mobile on PC, on the other hand, we wanted to make sure the game reached as many players as possible{{snd}}especially our most dedicated PC fans. The deciding factor was that we knew many of you would attempt to play this game through an emulator, thus leading us towards building a better experience."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gilliam |first=Ryan |date=2022-04-25 |title=Diablo Immortal is coming to PC, because Blizzard knew you'd emulate it anyway |url=https://www.polygon.com/23040956/diablo-immortal-pc-mobile-emulation-blizzard |access-date=2022-04-25 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=April 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220425160853/https://www.polygon.com/23040956/diablo-immortal-pc-mobile-emulation-blizzard |url-status=live }}</ref></blockquote>In an interview with GameSpot, the game's senior designer, Scott Burgess, added that they had taken "so long" to announce the game's PC version because they "wanted to make sure the polish of the game was at a point where we were happy with it and happy to release it simultaneously with the mobile launch."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Koch |first=Cameron |date=May 30, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Strives To Be A "True" Diablo Experience, Even As It Breaks New Ground |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-strives-to-be-a-true-diablo-experience-even-as-it-breaks-new-ground/1100-6503959/ |access-date=June 3, 2022 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=June 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220603003142/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-strives-to-be-a-true-diablo-experience-even-as-it-breaks-new-ground/1100-6503959/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The release version of the game was expanded to include support for a number of additional controllers compared with its beta versions, including the [[Engineering:PlayStation 5|PlayStation 5's]] [[Engineering:DualShock#DualSense|DualSense]], the Rotor Riot, and the SteelSeries Nimbus.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Madnani |first=Mikhail |date=May 30, 2022 |title='Diablo Immortal' Controller Support, Cross-Progression Play, and More Detailed Ahead of Its Release This Week |url=https://toucharcade.com/2022/05/30/diablo-immortal-controller-support-list-gamepad-cross-progression-play-battle-net-pc-ios-android-iphone-ipad/ |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=TouchArcade |language=en-US}}</ref>

PC pre-loading for the game began on May 26, 2022,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gerblick |first=Jordan |date=May 26, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal pre-load and release times explained |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-pre-load-and-release-times-explained/ |access-date=May 28, 2022 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=May 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220527215420/https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-pre-load-and-release-times-explained/ |url-status=live }}</ref> alongside Blizzard's "roadmap to hell," detailing the game's rollout schedule.<ref name=":51" /> This included confirmation that although it would launch on June 2 for most regions, ''Immortal'' would launch on June 23 for countries in the Asia Pacific region such as [[Place:Hong Kong|Hong Kong]], Indonesia, [[Place:Singapore|Singapore]], and Thailand,<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Diablo Immortal Asia Pacific Release Date Delayed To June 23 |url=https://sendstory.co/news/diablo-immortal-asia-pacific-release-1653297195559 |access-date=June 7, 2022 |website=Diablo Immortal Asia Pacific Release Date Delayed To June 23 - 'IGN Southeast Asia' News {{!}} SendStory Singapore |language=en |archive-date=May 23, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220523182252/https://sendstory.co/news/diablo-immortal-asia-pacific-release-1653297195559 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Wheeler |first=C. J. |date=May 27, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal pre-load begins on PC today ahead of its launch on June 2nd |language=en |work=Rock, Paper, Shotgun |url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/diablo-immortal-pre-load-begins-on-pc-today-ahead-of-its-launch-on-june-2nd |access-date=May 28, 2022 |archive-date=May 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220527164048/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/diablo-immortal-pre-load-begins-on-pc-today-ahead-of-its-launch-on-june-2nd |url-status=live }}</ref> and that it would only be available on PC for players in Vietnam.<ref name=":51" /> It was also confirmed that it would launch with native voice chat transcription and [[Speech recognition|speech-to-text]] [[Software:Game accessibility|accessibility]] options.<ref name=":46">{{Cite web |last=Parrish |first=Ash |date=May 27, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal will launch with native voice chat transcription and speech-to-text |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/5/27/23144457/diablo-immortal-accessibility-text-to-speech-voice-transcription |access-date=May 28, 2022 |website=[[The Verge]] |language=en |archive-date=May 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220527223842/https://www.theverge.com/2022/5/27/23144457/diablo-immortal-accessibility-text-to-speech-voice-transcription |url-status=live }}</ref> In the following days, it was revealed that the game would not be launching in Belgium and the Netherlands, due to "current operating environment for games in those countries,"<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bishop |first=Rollin |date=May 30, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Won't Release in Some Countries |url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/diablo-immortal-release-date-loot-box-ban/ |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=ComicBook |language=en |archive-date=June 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220602210703/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/diablo-immortal-release-date-loot-box-ban/ |url-status=live }}</ref> specifically their tighter laws regarding [[Loot box|loot box]]es.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Phillips |first=Tom |date=May 30, 2022 |title=Lootbox laws reportedly block Diablo Immortal launches |language=en-gb |work=Eurogamer |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/lootbox-laws-reportedly-block-diablo-immortal-launches |access-date=June 2, 2022 |archive-date=July 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220711183827/https://www.eurogamer.net/lootbox-laws-reportedly-block-diablo-immortal-launches |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Scullion |first=Chris |date=May 30, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal reportedly won't be released in Belgium or the Netherlands because of its loot boxes |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/diablo-immortal-reportedly-wont-be-released-in-belgium-or-the-netherlands-because-of-its-loot-boxes/ |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=VGC |language=en-GB |archive-date=June 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220601083521/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/diablo-immortal-reportedly-wont-be-released-in-belgium-or-the-netherlands-because-of-its-loot-boxes/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Blizzard supplied reviewers for the game with Razer Kishi controllers, which attach to smartphones to provide a hardware experience similar to handheld gaming consoles such as the [[Engineering:Nintendo Switch|Nintendo Switch]] or Steam Deck.<ref name=":46" /> In an interview with {{wipe|The Washington Post}}, game director Wyatt Cheng said that he believed "...'Diablo Immortal' is going to change a lot of people's minds on what they think of as a mobile game. That was one of our goals since the beginning. Let's elevate the standards for what people can expect from a mobile game."<ref name=":45" />

As previously indicated by Blizzard,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Koch |first=Cameron |date=May 26, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal: Release Time, Pre-Load, And How To Enable Cross-Progression |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-release-time-pre-load-and-how-to-enable-cross-progression/1100-6503896/ |access-date=May 28, 2022 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=May 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220528185708/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-release-time-pre-load-and-how-to-enable-cross-progression/1100-6503896/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":51" /> The mobile version of the game became available for some markets a day ahead of the official June 2 release date.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Egan |first=Toussaint |date=June 1, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal is out early on mobile |url=https://www.polygon.com/platform/amp/23149973/diablo-immortal-early-release-date-android-ios-download-pc-version |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Polygon |archive-date=June 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220601153853/https://www.polygon.com/platform/amp/23149973/diablo-immortal-early-release-date-android-ios-download-pc-version |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Parrish |first=Ash |date=June 1, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal feels uncomfortably mercenary |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/1/23150381/diablo-immortal-preview-mobile-activision-blizzard |access-date=June 4, 2022 |website=[[The Verge]] |language=en |archive-date=June 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604011528/https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/1/23150381/diablo-immortal-preview-mobile-activision-blizzard |url-status=live }}</ref>

In September 2022, the game received an official tie-in promotion with Burger King in Japan. This promotion featured a limited-time spicy garlic cheeseburger and a giveaway of three t-shirts with a chibi-style cartoon of in-game enemy "The Butcher" (drawn by manga artist Bkub Okawa).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allsop |first=Ken |date=September 9, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Burger King promotion launches in Japan |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/burger-king |access-date=September 19, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |language=en-GB |archive-date=September 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220920172525/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/burger-king |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Asia-Pacific release delays ===
On June 15, 2022, ''Immortal's'' official account on Chinese social media website [[Social:Sina Weibo|Weibo]] was reportedly banned from the service for "violating relevant laws and regulations,"<ref name=":66">{{Cite web |last=Campbell |first=Kyle |date=June 20, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal delayed in China just days before launch |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/diablo-immortal-delayed-in-china-just-days-before-launch/ar-AAYG6ob |access-date=June 26, 2022 |website=[[Software:MSN|MSN]] |language=en-US |archive-date=June 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220626231858/https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/diablo-immortal-delayed-in-china-just-days-before-launch/ar-AAYG6ob |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Jiang |first=Yaling |date=June 17, 2022 |title=NetEase's new game Diablo Immortal banned from new posts on Weibo just a week before hotly-anticipated release |url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/neteases-game-diablo-immortal-banned-093000895.html |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=[[Software:Yahoo! Finance|Yahoo! Finance]] |language=en-US |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627202624/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/neteases-game-diablo-immortal-banned-093000895.html |url-status=live }}</ref> with publications speculating that this was due to an alleged, since-deleted post from the account making reference to Winnie the Pooh (a popular method for criticizing Chinese leader, [[Biography:Xi Jinping|Xi Jinping]]).<ref name=":67">{{Cite web |last=Walker |first=John |date=June 20, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal's China Release Delayed Following Social Media Silencing |url=https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-blizzard-netease-china-weibo-mobile-gam-1849084106 |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Kotaku |language=en-us |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627202624/https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-blizzard-netease-china-weibo-mobile-gam-1849084106 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":70">{{Cite web |last=Holt |first=Kris |date=June 20, 2022 |title='Diablo Immortal' delayed indefinitely in China just before its planned release date |url=https://www.engadget.com/diablo-immortal-china-delay-weibo-netease-blizzard-200834353.html |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=[[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] |language=en-US |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627202624/https://www.engadget.com/diablo-immortal-china-delay-weibo-netease-blizzard-200834353.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Young |first=Rory |date=June 26, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Under Fire in China After Social Media Post Mocked Xi Jinping |url=https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-china-controversy-social-media-post-mocked-xi-jinping/ |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Game Rant |language=en-US |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627010822/https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-china-controversy-social-media-post-mocked-xi-jinping/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":76">{{Cite web |last=Huang |first=Zheping |date=July 21, 2022 |title=NetEase to Launch Diablo Immortal in China After Long Delay |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-07-21/netease-to-launch-diablo-immortal-in-china-after-a-month-s-delay |access-date=July 22, 2022 |website=[[Company:Bloomberg L.P.|Bloomberg]] |archive-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721092839/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-07-21/netease-to-launch-diablo-immortal-in-china-after-a-month-s-delay |url-status=live }}</ref> Four days later, it was announced that the game's release in Asia-Pacific markets (originally scheduled for June 23, 2022)<ref name=":71">{{Cite web |last=Welsh |first=Oli |date=June 21, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal's Chinese launch delayed at last moment |url=https://www.polygon.com/23176668/diablo-immortal-china-launch-delay-social-media-ban |access-date=June 29, 2022 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=June 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629004259/https://www.polygon.com/23176668/diablo-immortal-china-launch-delay-social-media-ban |url-status=live }}</ref> would be delayed for developers to "[make] a number of optimization adjustments,"<ref name=":66" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Greenbaum |first=Aaron |date=June 27, 2022 |title=Why Diablo Immortal May Already Be Doomed |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/diablo-immortal-doomed/ |access-date=July 2, 2022 |website=Den of Geek |language=en-US |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702202212/https://www.denofgeek.com/games/diablo-immortal-doomed/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":75">{{Cite news |last=Huang |first=Zheping |date=June 24, 2022 |title=NetEase's Delay of Diablo Immortal Signals Trouble Ahead in China |language=en |work=[[Company:Bloomberg L.P.|Bloomberg]] |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2022-06-24/netease-s-delay-of-diablo-immortal-signals-trouble-ahead-in-china |access-date=July 11, 2022 |archive-date=June 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220625001442/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2022-06-24/netease-s-delay-of-diablo-immortal-signals-trouble-ahead-in-china |url-status=live }}</ref> including "support for a wider range of models and devices ... experience, network and performance optimisations, and more."<ref>{{Cite news |last=Phillips |first=Tom |date=July 22, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal China delay due to Winnie the Pooh social media post, report suggests |language=en-gb |work=Eurogamer |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/diablo-immortal-china-delay-due-to-winnie-the-pooh-social-media-post-report-suggests |access-date=July 22, 2022 |archive-date=July 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220722134959/https://www.eurogamer.net/diablo-immortal-china-delay-due-to-winnie-the-pooh-social-media-post-report-suggests |url-status=live }}</ref>

Following the delay, NetEase promised players an "exclusive thank-you package containing legendary equipment" as an apology, and provided an updated release window of July 8 for impacted markets such as [[Place:Hong Kong|Hong Kong]], Indonesia, [[Place:Macau|Macao]], Malaysia, {{wipe|Philippines}}, [[Place:Singapore|Singapore]], Taiwan, and Thailand;<ref name=":75" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Wong |first=Dale John |date=July 6, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal arrives in Southeast Asia on July 8. Here's how to prepare yourself. |url=https://sea.mashable.com/entertainment/20758/diablo-immortal-arrives-in-southeast-asia-on-july-8-heres-how-to-prepare-yourself |access-date=July 11, 2022 |website=Mashable |language=en-sg |archive-date=July 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707081805/https://sea.mashable.com/entertainment/20758/diablo-immortal-arrives-in-southeast-asia-on-july-8-heres-how-to-prepare-yourself |url-status=live }}</ref> however, no new release date for {{wipe|China}} (which had received over 15 million pre-registrations)<ref name=":67" /> was confirmed at the time.<ref name=":75" /><ref name=":70" /> NetEase's share price fell significantly in the days following these events.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kharpal |first=Arjun |date=June 20, 2022 |title=Gaming giant NetEase plunges nearly 7% after it delays release of Diablo Immortal in China |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2022/06/20/netease-delays-release-of-diablo-immortal-in-china-shares-fall.html |access-date=June 26, 2022 |website={{wipe|CNBC}} |language=en |archive-date=September 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140312/https://www.cnbc.com/2022/06/20/netease-delays-release-of-diablo-immortal-in-china-shares-fall.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Toh |first=Michelle |date=June 21, 2022 |title=NetEase delays 'Diablo Immortal' release in China |url=https://www.cnn.com/2022/06/21/tech/diablo-immortal-china-netease-intl-hnk/index.html |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=CNN |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627202624/https://www.cnn.com/2022/06/21/tech/diablo-immortal-china-netease-intl-hnk/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Purslow |first=Matt |date=June 20, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal's Chinese Release Delayed Just Days Before Launch |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-china-launch-delay |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=June 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220626144048/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-china-launch-delay |url-status=live }}</ref>

The following month, NetEase confirmed the game's updated China release date of July 25, 2022.<ref name=":76" /><ref name=":79" /> Sources cited by ''[[Company:Bloomberg L.P.|Bloomberg]]'' indicated that this date was still "subject to last-minute changes";<ref name=":76" /><ref name=":79">{{Cite web |last=Peters |first=Jay |date=July 22, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal is in trouble in China due to Winnie the Pooh |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/7/22/23274348/diablo-immortal-china-winnie-the-pooh-launch-date-blizzard-netease |access-date=July 22, 2022 |website=[[The Verge]] |language=en |archive-date=July 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220722185829/https://www.theverge.com/2022/7/22/23274348/diablo-immortal-china-winnie-the-pooh-launch-date-blizzard-netease |url-status=live }}</ref> however, the release went ahead as planned.<ref name=":80">{{Cite web |last1=Cao |first1=Ann |last2=Jiang |first2=Yaling |date=July 25, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal finally launches in China, but some players are upset |url=https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3186537/netease-quietly-launches-diablo-immortal-china-after-month-long-delay |access-date=July 25, 2022 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en |archive-date=September 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140316/https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3186537/netease-quietly-launches-diablo-immortal-china-after-month-long-delay |url-status=live }}</ref> Due to the ongoing ban of the game's Weibo account, NetEase did not make any social media announcement for the updated launch date (though did set up pre-launch marketing pages on the App Store and TapTap online game stores).<ref name=":80" /> On the first two days of release, Immortal was first place in the country's iOS video game downloads,<ref name=":82">{{Cite news |last=Phillips |first=Tom |date=July 28, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal passes $100m revenue after just eight weeks |language=en-gb |work=Eurogamer |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/diablo-immortal-passes-100m-revenue-after-just-eight-weeks |access-date=July 29, 2022 |archive-date=September 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140330/https://www.eurogamer.net/diablo-immortal-passes-100m-revenue-after-just-eight-weeks |url-status=live }}</ref> with some players on popular regional servers experienced queues of over 5,000 people.<ref name=":80" />

=== Post-release updates ===
Following a "Season 2" update on July 7, 2022 (focused on a new Battle Pass, and new Helliquary boss, and new cosmetic items),<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cyre |first=Clayton Sterling |date=July 6, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Update Buffs Two Classes |url=https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-season-2-monk-wizard-buff/ |access-date=July 22, 2022 |website=GameRant |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Broadwell |first=Josh |date=July 23, 2022 |title=Blizzard teases first Diablo Immortal update and new story content |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/update-battle-pass |access-date=July 22, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |language=en-GB |archive-date=September 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140832/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/update-battle-pass |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Immortal's'' first new feature was added on July 20, granting player's access to the "Class Change" feature, swapping their character's class for free, without losing their prior progress.<ref name=":77" /><ref name=":78" />

In mid-August 2022, additional game modes were added in the form of limited-time events, including the "Fractured Plane" (a [[Software:Roguelike|roguelike]] mode where players enter a 15-floor dungeon, starting with a basic set of skills and equipment, then salvaging better items or purchasing them using looted "shadow coins") and the "Echo of the Immortal" (a PVP mode allowing non-Immortal players to play a match similar to "Challenge of the Immortal").<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allsop |first=Ken |date=August 17, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal update adds roguelike event – patch notes |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/update-patch-notes-august-17 |access-date=August 17, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |language=en-GB |archive-date=September 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140919/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/update-patch-notes-august-17 |url-status=live }}</ref>

''Immortal's'' first "major" update was released in late September 2022.<ref name=":86">{{Cite web |last=Marc |first=Deschamps |date=September 21, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Reveals First Major Update Details |url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/diablo-immortal-blizzard-forgotten-nightmares-update-details/ |access-date=October 16, 2022 |website=Comic Book |language=en |archive-date=September 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140836/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/diablo-immortal-blizzard-forgotten-nightmares-update-details/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hope |first=Bellingham |date=September 27, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Forgotten Nightmares release time - here's when maintenance starts and ends |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-forgotten-nightmares-release-time/ |access-date=October 16, 2022 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=September 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140837/https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-forgotten-nightmares-release-time/ |url-status=live }}</ref> This "Forgotten Nightmares" update introduced a new dungeon and a new system for warband groups to occupy and explore a new location called "Castle Cyrangar."<ref name=":84" /><ref name=":86" /> In the following month, Blizzard also added a means for players to earn "Telluric Pearls:" a new resource for crafting 5-star legendary gems without making in-game purchases.<ref name=":85" />

In response to one of the game's "top requested changes from our community," the ability to transfer characters between in-game servers was added in October 2022, alongside the announcement that the game would be merging servers to achieve higher player counts in each (such as the 12 servers in each North American data center being merged into four groups of three).<ref name=":87" />

The first additional in-game location for ''Immortal'', the "salt-scrubbed prison island" of Stormpoint, was announced during a developer Q&A post, which confirmed that it would "expand the story of Diablo Immortal and introduce a new questline," whilst also featuring "more farming opportunities, bounties, and unique zone-wide events."<ref name=":88">{{Cite web |last=Allsop |first=Ken |date=December 1, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal update to add new zone and character redesign |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/update-new-zone-character-redesign |access-date=December 5, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |language=en-US |archive-date=September 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902140904/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/update-new-zone-character-redesign |url-status=live }}</ref> The new location was released on December 14, 2022, as part of the game's second "major content update," named "Terror's Tide."<ref name=":88" /><ref name=":89" /> This update also introduced the option for players to re-customize the appearance of their characters,<ref name=":88" /> plus additional "Hell" difficulty levels (tied more closely to Paragon and Helliquary progression systems).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bergin |first=Lauren |date=December 13, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal update adds new Stormpoint zone, bosses, gems |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/update-stormpoint |access-date=December 16, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |language=en-US}}</ref>

The game's first new class (also first for the series overall since ''Diablo III''<nowiki/>'s Crusader in 2014), the Blood Knight, was revealed in early July 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Yin-Poole |first=Wesley |date=2023-07-07 |title=The Blood Knight Is Diablo's First New Class Since the Crusader in 2014 |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/the-blood-knight-is-diablos-first-new-class-since-the-crusader-in-2014 |access-date=2023-07-08 |website=IGN |language=en}}</ref> Described as a "vanquisher of vampires" and "a mid-range class ... specializing in the polearm weapon type," the Blood Knight was based upon characters established in lore from the original ''Diablo''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Zwiezen |first=Zack |date=2023-07-06 |title=Diablo's First New Class Since 2014 Is A Cool-Looking Vampire Warrior |url=https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-blood-knight-new-class-build-2023-july-1850612930 |access-date=2023-07-08 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=July 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230708205823/https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-blood-knight-new-class-build-2023-july-1850612930 |url-status=live }}</ref>

== Reception ==
=== Pre-release ===
Response to ''Immortal's'' announcement at BlizzCon 2018 was largely negative.<ref name=":5" /><ref name=":26">{{Cite web|last=Makuch|first=Eddie|date=November 8, 2018|title=Diablo Immortal Controversy: Blizzard's New President Responds|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-controversy-blizzards-new-presiden/1100-6463143/|url-status=live|access-date=May 9, 2021|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|archive-date=November 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124191716/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-controversy-blizzards-new-presiden/1100-6463143/}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine|last=Muncy|first=Julie|date=November 9, 2018|title=Blizzard's 'Diablo: Immortal' Announcement Did Not Go Well|language=en-US|magazine=Wired|url=https://www.wired.com/story/diablo-immortal-blizzard-controversy/|access-date=May 9, 2021|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> While traditional gaming audiences often express skepticism towards mobile versions of game franchises, the ''Diablo'' series community's discontent was compounded by their anticipation for a larger announcement.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":18">{{cite web|last=Brown|first=Josh|date=February 19, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal will be a massive success, whether you like it or not|url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/diablo-immortal-mobile-will-be-huge-for-blizzard/|url-status=live|access-date=February 22, 2021|website=DigitalTrends|archive-date=February 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210221171634/https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/diablo-immortal-mobile-will-be-huge-for-blizzard/}}</ref><ref name=":27">{{Cite web|last=Beck|first=Kellen|date=November 2, 2018|title='Diablo Immortal' is actually fun, you entitled babies|url=https://mashable.com/article/diablo-immortal-hands-on/|url-status=live|access-date=May 10, 2021|website=Mashable|language=en|archive-date=May 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210514145617/https://mashable.com/article/diablo-immortal-hands-on/}}</ref> They expressed their discontent through online channels, likening ''Immortal'' to a "reskin" of prior NetEase games, such as ''Crusaders of Light'' and ''Endless of God''.<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite web|last=Marks|first=Tom|date=November 3, 2018|title=Diablo: Immortal Reveal Met with Negative Response by Fans, Blizzard Responds|url=https://sea.ign.com/iphone/143128/news/diablo-immortal-reveal-met-with-negative-response-by-fans-blizzard-responds|url-status=live|access-date=May 9, 2021|website=IGN Southeast Asia|language=en-sg|archive-date=May 10, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210510143905/https://sea.ign.com/iphone/143128/news/diablo-immortal-reveal-met-with-negative-response-by-fans-blizzard-responds}}</ref> Later in the same day, developers participated in a Q&A with attendees. Two particular questions leveled at Wyatt Cheng, Principal Game Designer at Blizzard, drew significant attention from media and audiences alike, with one attendee asking if the announcement was an "out of season April Fools' joke",<ref>{{cite web|last=Knoop|first=Joseph|date=November 3, 2018|title='Is this an April Fools joke?' Blizzard fans are having a fit over the new Diablo mobile game|url=https://www.dailydot.com/parsec/diablo-immortal/|access-date=November 13, 2018|publisher=The Daily Dot|archive-date=November 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113210401/https://www.dailydot.com/parsec/diablo-immortal/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Becht|first=Eli|date=November 2, 2018|title=WATCH: Fan Asks If Diablo: Immortal Is April Fool's Joke|url=https://heavy.com/games/2018/11/diablo-immortal-april-fools-joke/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113210644/https://heavy.com/games/2018/11/diablo-immortal-april-fools-joke/|archive-date=November 13, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2018|website=Heavy|publisher=}}</ref> and another asking if there was a possibility for a PC release, leading to the crowd [[Philosophy:Booing|booing]] when the answer was negative.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuchera|first=Ben|date=November 5, 2018|title=Diablo: Immortal broke the unspoken rules of Blizzard, and BlizzCon|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/11/5/18064290/blizzard-diablo-immortal-reaction-explainer-blizzcon|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107210218/https://www.polygon.com/2018/11/5/18064290/blizzard-diablo-immortal-reaction-explainer-blizzcon|archive-date=November 7, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2018|website=Polygon|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Khan|first=Asif|date=November 2, 2018|title=Fans react to Diablo Immortal like disrespectful edgelords at BlizzCon 2018's Q&A|url=https://www.shacknews.com/article/108310/fans-react-to-diablo-immortal-like-disrespectful-edgelords-at-blizzcon-2018s-qa|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114010723/https://www.shacknews.com/article/108310/fans-react-to-diablo-immortal-like-disrespectful-edgelords-at-blizzcon-2018s-qa|archive-date=November 14, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2018|website=Shacknews}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Workman|first=Robert|date=November 4, 2018|title='Diablo Immortal' Gets Heavy Ire From Die-Hard Blizzard Fans|url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/2018/11/04/diablo-immortal-angry-fans-blizzard/|access-date=November 13, 2018|publisher=ComicBook.com|archive-date=November 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113210518/https://comicbook.com/gaming/2018/11/04/diablo-immortal-angry-fans-blizzard/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Blizzard responded to the announcement's reception the following day, stating that ''Immortal'' is but one ''Diablo'' series game in active development, and pointing to the company's multi-platform development experience and the success of the mobile version of ''[[Software:Hearthstone|Hearthstone]]'' as evidence of their capacity to overcome uncertainty and do right by their core audience.<ref name=":5" /> They also addressed a rumor that they had withheld announcement of a main ''Diablo'' sequel due to the negative response at ''Immortal'''s reveal:<blockquote>"First off we want to mention that we definitely hear our community. We generally don't comment on rumors or speculation, but we can say that we didn't pull any announcements from BlizzCon this year or have plans for other announcements. We do continue to have different teams working on multiple unannounced Diablo projects, and we look forward to announcing when the time is right."<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wade|first=Jessie|date=2018-11-21|title=Update: Blizzard Says It 'Didn't Pull Any Announcements From BlizzCon'|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/11/06/diablo-4-announcement-reportedly-pulled-from-blizzcon-2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181106090913/https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/11/06/diablo-4-announcement-reportedly-pulled-from-blizzcon-2018|archive-date=November 6, 2018|access-date=2021-02-02|website=IGN}}</ref></blockquote>Following the announcement, Activision Blizzard's stock fell 7% on the first weekday of trading.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/insertcoin/2018/11/06/diablo-immortal-blizzcon-backlash-leads-to-activision-stock-slide/|title='Diablo Immortal' BlizzCon Backlash Leads To Activision Stock Slide|last=Tassi|first=Paul|date=November 6, 2018|work={{wipe|Forbes}}|access-date=November 13, 2018|archive-date=November 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113030007/https://www.forbes.com/sites/insertcoin/2018/11/06/diablo-immortal-blizzcon-backlash-leads-to-activision-stock-slide/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Noonan|first=Keith|date=November 11, 2018|title=Fans Hate Activision Blizzard's Newest Game. Should Investors Be Worried?|url=https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/11/11/fans-hate-activision-blizzards-newest-game-should.aspx|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113210859/https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/11/11/fans-hate-activision-blizzards-newest-game-should.aspx|archive-date=November 13, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2018|website=The Motley Fool|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2018-11-06-activision-blizzard-stocks-tumble-amid-fan-backlash-over-diablo-immortal|title=Activision Blizzard stock tumbles following Diablo Immortal backlash|last=Taylor|first=Haydn|date=November 6, 2018|publisher=GameIndustry.biz|access-date=November 13, 2018|archive-date=November 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113210533/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2018-11-06-activision-blizzard-stocks-tumble-amid-fan-backlash-over-diablo-immortal|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Makuch|first=Eddie|date=November 5, 2018|title=Activision Blizzard Stock Drops Following Diablo Drama At BlizzCon|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/activision-blizzard-stock-drops-following-diablo-d/1100-6463046/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181106171806/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/activision-blizzard-stock-drops-following-diablo-d/1100-6463046/|archive-date=November 6, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2018|website=GameSpot|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Scott-Jones|first=Richard|date=November 6, 2018|title=Activision-Blizzard's stock crashes 7% after Diablo: Immortal Reveal|url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal-stock-crash|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113212209/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal-stock-crash|archive-date=November 13, 2018|access-date=November 13, 2018|website=PCGamesN|publisher=}}</ref> Later in November 2018, newly-appointed Blizzard president, J Allen Brack, thanked fans for their feedback, because it showed their love for the franchise:<ref name=":26" />

<blockquote>"I think it's clear there's a lot of players who are eager for more Diablo PC and console content. That came through loud and clear from BlizzCon. Frankly, we feel fortunate to have a community that cares so much about that franchise. The commitment and the engagement of our community is one of the things that makes Blizzard very special and something that we really appreciate.<ref name=":26" />

"We feel that Diablo Immortal is going to deliver a very authentic Diablo experience, and we're not going to compromise on that mission ... Launching the game is only going to be the beginning. There's going to be ongoing support. We're only going to release the game when we feel like it is meeting the community's very high standards. In the end, Diablo Immortal is going to fulfil that, and we think that people are going to experience it, and we think they're going to love it."<ref name=":26" /></blockquote>

Previews based on the game's earliest demos in 2018 included both positive and negative sentiment.<ref name=":27" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":28">{{Cite web|last=Fillari|first=Alessandro|date=November 5, 2018|title=Diablo Immortal Left Me Surprisingly Impressed, Though Some Questions Remain|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-left-me-surprisingly-impressed-tho/1100-6463010/|url-status=live|access-date=May 10, 2021|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|archive-date=February 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225211642/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-left-me-surprisingly-impressed-tho/1100-6463010/}}</ref> ''Mashable'', for example, described the game as "a lot of fun" and praised its visual style compared to ''Diablo III'',<ref name=":27" /> while ''GameSpot'' and ''VentureBeat'' cited its many unknown factors (especially how its [[Social:Business model|business model]] would work, which Blizzard was unable to confirm at the time) as one of the biggest areas of concern.<ref name=":28" /><ref>{{Cite web|last=Minotti|first=Mike|date=November 2, 2018|title=Diablo: Immortal hands-on — calm down, it's fine|url=https://venturebeat.com/2018/11/02/diablo-immortal-hands-on-calm-down-its-fine/|url-status=live|access-date=May 10, 2021|website=VentureBeat|language=en-US|archive-date=May 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210511191836/https://venturebeat.com/2018/11/02/diablo-immortal-hands-on-calm-down-its-fine/}}</ref> Some writers expressed approval for its controls,<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":4" /><ref name=":27" /> its interface having been tested by prior NetEase games,<ref name=":4" /> although ''Polygon'' noted difficulties with the precision aiming of abilities,<ref name=":1" /> and ''Kotaku'' felt it to be "occasionally slow to respond."<ref name=":4" /> Multiple writers felt that where ''Immortal'' captured the series' look and feel, it omitted some of its core tenets,<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":4" /> or as ''Polygon'' put it, ''Diablo''{{'s}} "soul".<ref name=":1" /> Although the mobile game captured the basic ''Diablo'' experience, the reviewers questioned whether the new entry had enough new content to remain fresh.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":4" /> In these early previews of the game, newly equipped items did not change the visual appearance of the player's character, which also received criticism;<ref name=":4" /> however, this feature was added by the time of the game's subsequent alpha demo.<ref name=":0" />

In contrast to those from 2018, previews based on the game's late 2020 alpha featured a higher level of positivity:<ref name=":18" /> ''IGN'', described ''Immortal'' as offering a "fully fledged new Diablo" experience, and "not a watered down mobile lookalike"<ref name=":0" /> (a message reinforced by ''Eurogamer<ref name=":13" />'' and ''[[The Verge]]'', who described it as "[feeling] like a proper Diablo game").<ref name=":10" /> ''IGN'' made specific callout of the fact that, despite ''Immortal'' being a free-to-play game, there were no core gameplay elements (such as missions, character progression, or loot items) which required players to spend money.<ref name=":0" /> Other areas of praise included the game's combat and art direction (including the look of different equipment items on character models); however, the lack of controller support was identified as a shortcoming.<ref name=":0" /> ''Game Informer''<nowiki/>'s reviewer explicitly stated that the game's new alpha "looks, feels, and plays much closer to a core Diablo title" than the previous demos they had seen; however, they felt that while the game had a number of positives, it made them wish it was available on a non-mobile platform, without virtual touch controls.<ref name=":8" />

Of the game's 2021 beta version, Anthony Nash of Android Central stated that "''Diablo Immortal'' has what it takes to not only deliver an authentic Diablo experience, but to quickly become one of the best Android games available when it launches." Describing it as "a must-play for fans of the series," Nash praised the newly-added necromancer class and the improvements to player vs. player modes compared to the prior alpha.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Nash|first=Anthony|date=November 16, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal closed beta impressions: It's all coming together|url=https://www.androidcentral.com/diablo-immortal-closed-beta-impressions|url-status=live|access-date=November 19, 2021|website=Android Central|language=en|archive-date=November 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211119220038/https://www.androidcentral.com/diablo-immortal-closed-beta-impressions}}</ref> Nick Rego of IGN also praised the beta's improvements over the alpha and its similarity to prior Diablo games, but also noted that "it'll only run as good as the phone you're playing it on, and in-game microtransactions may make you feel like you're missing out on some truly great items."<ref>{{Cite web|last=Rego|first=Nick|date=November 13, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal Puts The Minions Of Hell In The Palm Of Your Hand|url=https://me.ign.com/en/mobile/191595/preview/diablo-immortal-puts-the-minions-of-hell-in-the-palm-of-your-hand|url-status=live|access-date=November 23, 2021|website=IGN Middle East|language=en-ae|archive-date=November 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211123202402/https://me.ign.com/en/mobile/191595/preview/diablo-immortal-puts-the-minions-of-hell-in-the-palm-of-your-hand}}</ref> Cam Shea of IGN also praised Immortal's controller support, but noted that it was at odds with the game's strength that, by being mobile, "it can fit into your life wherever you want it to."<ref name=":33" /> Shea also offered praise for the virtual controls available, describing them as "intuitive and easy to use", despite considering himself "generally not a fan of virtual analogue sticks and virtual buttons."<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|last=Shea|first=Cam|date=November 1, 2021|title=Diablo Immortal's Controller Support Works Well... but Is at Odds With the Game's True Strength|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-controller-support-impressions-closed-beta|website=IGN|language=en|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211228135700/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-controller-support-impressions-closed-beta |archive-date=December 28, 2021 |access-date=December 27, 2021}}</ref>

=== Post-release ===
{{Video game reviews
| MC = IOS: 67/100<ref name="MCIOS">{{cite web |title=Diablo Immortal for iPhone/iPad Reviews |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/diablo-immortal/critic-reviews/?platform=ios-iphoneipad |access-date=June 30, 2022 |website=Metacritic |archive-date=October 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007174715/https://www.metacritic.com/game/ios/diablo-immortal |url-status=live }}</ref><br/>PC: 59/100<ref name="MCPC">{{cite web |title=Diablo Immortal for PC Reviews |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/diablo-immortal/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |access-date=June 30, 2022 |website=Metacritic |archive-date=July 12, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220712163419/https://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/diablo-immortal |url-status=live }}</ref>
| Destruct = 6/10<ref name="Destruct">{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/reviews/review-diablo-immortal/ |title=Review: Diablo Immortal |last=Carter |first=Chris |date=June 6, 2022 |website=[[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] |access-date=June 16, 2022 |archive-date=October 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221021062317/https://www.destructoid.com/reviews/review-diablo-immortal/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
| GI = 8.5/10<ref name="GI">{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/review/diablo-immortal/the-price-of-playing-with-the-devil|title=Diablo Immortal Review|last=Carson|first=John|date=June 13, 2022|magazine=Game Informer|publisher=[[Company:GameStop|GameStop Corp.]]|access-date=June 16, 2022}}</ref>
| GSpot = 6/10<ref>{{Cite web|last=Barbosa|first=Alessandro|date=June 21, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal Review - Evil On The Go|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/diablo-immortal-review-evil-on-the-go/1900-6417897/|access-date=July 5, 2022|website=GameSpot|archive-date=July 20, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720065725/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/diablo-immortal-review-evil-on-the-go/1900-6417897/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| IGN = 6/10<ref name=":47">{{Cite web|last=Shea|first=Cam|date=June 1, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal Review|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-review|access-date=June 2, 2022|website=IGN|archive-date=October 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221019084654/https://www.ign.com/articles/diablo-immortal-review|url-status=live}}</ref>
| JXV = 14/20<ref name="JXV">{{Cite web|url=https://www.jeuxvideo.com/test/1585320/diablo-immortal-notre-avis-sur-le-jeu-de-role-action-polemique-de-blizzard.htm|title=Diablo Immortal : Notre avis sur le jeu de rôle action polémique de Blizzard|trans-title=Diablo Immortal : Our opinion on Blizzard's controversial action role-playing game|author=Carnbee|date=June 11, 2022|website=Jeuxvideo.com|access-date=June 18, 2022|language=fr|archive-date=August 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220807095855/https://www.jeuxvideo.com/test/1585320/diablo-immortal-notre-avis-sur-le-jeu-de-role-action-polemique-de-blizzard.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>
| PCM = {{rating|4|5}}<ref name="PCM">{{cite web |url=https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/diablo-immortal-for-ios |title=Diablo Immortal (for iOS) Review |last=Minor |first=Jordan |date=June 1, 2022 |website=PCMag |access-date=June 16, 2022 |archive-date=September 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220902194002/https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/diablo-immortal-for-ios |url-status=live }}</ref>
| TA = {{rating|4|5}}<ref name="TA">{{cite web |url=https://toucharcade.com/2022/06/03/diablo-immortal-review-microtransactions-pay-to-win-controller-support-iphone-ipad-android/ |title='Diablo Immortal' Review – A Deal with Diablo |last=Musgrave |first=Shaun |date=June 3, 2022 |website=TouchArcade |access-date=June 4, 2022 |archive-date=October 24, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221024161751/https://toucharcade.com/2022/06/03/diablo-immortal-review-microtransactions-pay-to-win-controller-support-iphone-ipad-android/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
}}

''Diablo Immortal'' received "mixed or average" reviews according to review aggregator Metacritic.<ref name="MCIOS"/><ref name="MCPC"/> Common areas of praise included the game's "fun" and "satisfying" combat,<ref name="GI"/><ref name=":49"/><ref name=":68">{{Cite web |last=Gillett |first=Nick |date=June 14, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal review - devilishly tempting |url=https://metro.co.uk/2022/06/14/diablo-immortal-review-devilishly-tempting-16824516/ |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Metro |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627202625/https://metro.co.uk/2022/06/14/diablo-immortal-review-devilishly-tempting-16824516/ |url-status=live }}</ref> graphics,<ref name="PCM"/> user interface,<ref name=":49"/><ref name=":47"/><ref name=":57">{{Cite web |last=Dedmon |first=Tanner |date=June 1, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Review: Fit for Phones |url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/diablo-immortal-review/ |access-date=June 4, 2022 |website=ComicBook |language=en |archive-date=June 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604011528/https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/diablo-immortal-review/ |url-status=live }}</ref> touch controls,<ref name="TA"/><ref name=":49"/> and overall presentation;<ref name=":49"/><ref name=":48"/> whereas areas of criticism included the plot,<ref name=":47"/><ref name="Destruct"/><ref name=":68"/> leveling system (citing a need for [[Software:Grinding (video games)|grinding]], particularly for free players),<ref name="GI"/><ref name="PCM"/><ref name=":53"/> and voice acting.<ref name=":47"/><ref name=":48"/><ref name=":65"/>

During his review, Cam Shea of ''IGN'' said the game "feels great to play, and for the most part it looks pretty good, too", reiterated his being a "big fan" of the game's touch controls, while also praising the game's streamlined inventory system compared with its predecessors.<ref name=":47"/> He also supported Blizzard's claim that the game did not require in-game purchases to enjoy, writing "not once, in more than 20 hours, did I hit any kind of unexpected roadblock where it felt like I was expected to make a purchase to more easily push through."<ref name=":47"/>

Other publications, however, expressed a higher level of concern with the game's monetization methods. ''Den of Geek's'' Matthew Byrd mentioned that when focusing attention on the "core Diablo Immortal experience... you're able to experience without spending a dime," it is "one of the most substantial mobile games ever made" and "features some of the most impressive presentation values you'll ever find in a mobile game;" however, Byrd also opined that the game's microtransactions are "malicious" and "clearly designed to make free-to-play gamers feel inferior".<ref name=":65"/> Similarly, Igor Bonifacic of ''[[Software:Engadget|Engadget]]'' described ''Immortal'' as "Blizzard's best and most worrying game in years" and "a more fitting sequel" to its predecessors than ''Diablo 3'', but also pointed out how "players willing to spend nearly endless amounts of money on the game will be the most powerful", contrasting with the "spirit of the franchise."<ref name=":48">{{Cite web |last=Bonifacic |first=Igor |date=June 1, 2022 |title='Diablo Immortal' is Blizzard's best and most worrying game in years |url=https://www.engadget.com/diablo-immortal-review-120001807.html |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=[[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] |archive-date=June 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220602102335/https://www.engadget.com/diablo-immortal-review-120001807.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Maddy Myers of ''Polygon'' thought ''Diablo Immortal'' proved that "''Diablo'' was made to be a mobile game", but pointed out how microtransactions work "a little too well" with the series formula, writing "[they] do not just feel predatory and manipulative; they feel like the final ingredient that allows an already-addictive series to attain its true form."<ref name=":56">{{Cite web |last=Myers |first=Maddy |date=June 3, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal proves Diablo was always meant for phones |url=https://www.polygon.com/23152323/diablo-immortal-mobile-free-to-play-microtransactions-addictive |access-date=June 4, 2022 |website=Polygon |archive-date=June 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220603232709/https://www.polygon.com/23152323/diablo-immortal-mobile-free-to-play-microtransactions-addictive |url-status=live }}</ref> Tyler Colp of ''PC Gamer'' said that in regards to the game's microtransactions, "the red flags are big with this one."<ref name=":53">{{Cite web|last=Tyler|first=Colp|date=June 1, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal isn't quite pay-to-win, but it's close|website=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-isnt-quite-pay-to-win-but-its-close/|access-date=June 3, 2022|archive-date=June 3, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220603135824/https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-isnt-quite-pay-to-win-but-its-close/|url-status=live}}</ref> A number of others expressed mixed or uncertain feelings regarding the game's business model (especially in comparison with some other free-to-play mobile titles) at their time of writing.<ref name="GI"/><ref name=":49">{{Cite web |last=Zwiezen |first=Zack |date=June 1, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Is Enjoyable If You Can Ignore All The Mobile Game Shit |url=https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-blizzard-review-mobile-rpg-ios-android-1849003750 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Kotaku |archive-date=June 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220601221057/https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-blizzard-review-mobile-rpg-ios-android-1849003750 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="PCM"/><ref name="TA"/>

In 2023, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences nominated ''Diablo Immortal'' for Mobile Game of the Year at the 26th Annual D.I.C.E. Awards.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.interactive.org/games/video_game_details.asp?idAward=2023&idGame=1906 |title=D.I.C.E> Awards By Video Game Detail Diablo Immortal |publisher=Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences |access-date=21 July 2023 |archive-date=July 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230721150816/https://www.interactive.org/games/video_game_details.asp?idAward=2023&idGame=1906 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==== Audience response ====
Metacritic's user review score for the PC version reached 0.2/10, making it the site's lowest ever user rating for a game.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Notis|first=Ari|date=June 13, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal Slammed On Metacritic, Now Holds Lowest User Score Ever|url=https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-metacritic-user-score-blizzard-free-to-1849055624|access-date=June 16, 2022|website=Kotaku|archive-date=June 24, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220624080201/https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-metacritic-user-score-blizzard-free-to-1849055624|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Middler |first1=Jordan |title=Diablo Immortal now has the lowest user score in Metacritic history |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/diablo-immortal-now-has-the-lowest-user-score-in-metacritic-history |website=Video Games Chronicle |access-date=June 16, 2022 |date=June 12, 2022 |archive-date=June 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220616061638/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/diablo-immortal-now-has-the-lowest-user-score-in-metacritic-history/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Criticism targeted the use of microtransactions, with players noting it became increasingly harder to progress through the later stages of the game without paying real-world money, and accused it of being "[[Finance:Free-to-play#Pay-to-win|pay-to-win]]".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kelly|first=Erron|title=Wow, gamers really hate Diablo: Immortal|url=https://venturebeat.com/2022/06/07/wow-gamers-really-hate-diablo-immortal|website=VentureBeat|access-date=June 13, 2022|date=June 7, 2022|archive-date=June 13, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220613193725/https://venturebeat.com/2022/06/07/wow-gamers-really-hate-diablo-immortal/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="VGC Backlash">{{cite web |last1=Scullion |first1=Chris |title=Diablo Immortal faces a backlash as Metacritic user score drops to Blizzard's third lowest ever |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/diablo-immortal-faces-a-backlash-as-metacritic-user-score-drops-to-blizzards-third-lowest-ever |website=Video Games Chronicle |access-date=June 13, 2022 |date=June 6, 2022 |archive-date=June 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220613193729/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/diablo-immortal-faces-a-backlash-as-metacritic-user-score-drops-to-blizzards-third-lowest-ever |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":65"/>

In the days following ''Immortal''{{'}}s release, publications reported on calculations made by [[Social:YouTuber|YouTuber]] Bellular News that it would require approximately {{Currency|100,000|USD}} of real-world money to fully upgrade a character,<ref name=":62"/><ref name=":64"/> or approximately 10 years of play without purchases.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Beckwith|first=Michael|date=June 6, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal costs £80,000 or 10 years of playing to fully upgrade characters|url=https://metro.co.uk/2022/06/06/diablo-immortal-cost-80000-or-10-years-to-fully-upgrade-a-character-16776611/|access-date=June 27, 2022|website=Metro}}</ref> The required costs were primarily attributed to the game's highest-level legendary gems not being able to be earned by free-to-play players, while the paid process to obtain them was noted by ''Eurogamer'' as "randomised and often exceedingly rare".<ref name=":62"/><ref name=":64">{{Cite web |last=Galekovic |first=Filip |date=June 4, 2022 |title=It Costs $110,000 to Fully Gear-Up in Diablo Immortal |url=https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-pay-to-win-legendary-gems/amp/ |access-date=June 11, 2022 |website=Game Rant |archive-date=June 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220609214408/https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-pay-to-win-legendary-gems/amp/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Game Rant'' and other publications, meanwhile, documented that a [[Company:Twitch (service)|Twitch]] [[Video game live streaming|streamer]] had, in an attempt to highlight the design of the progression system, spent NZ$25,166 ($15,997) in the game before receiving any top-level legendary gems.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scullion |first=Chris |date=June 20, 2022 |title=A Diablo Immortal player spent $15,000 getting a rare gem, then destroyed it in protest |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/a-diablo-immortal-player-spent-15000-getting-a-rare-gem-then-destroyed-it-in-protest/ |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=Video Games Chronicle |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627190401/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/a-diablo-immortal-player-spent-15000-getting-a-rare-gem-then-destroyed-it-in-protest/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Bowen |first=Thomas |date=June 16, 2022 |website=Game Rant |url=https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-streamer-quin69-spends-20000-dollars-no-legendary-gem/ |title=Diablo Immortal Streamer's Spending Passes $20,000 Without Legendary Gem |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220616233328/https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-streamer-quin69-spends-20000-dollars-no-legendary-gem/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Joey |date=June 6, 2022 |title=Streamer Spends Nearly $4,000 on Diablo Immortal and Doesn't Get Any 5 Star Legendary Gems |url=https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-streamer-spends-nearly-4000-dollars-no-5-star-legendary-gems/ |access-date=June 11, 2022 |website=Game Rant |archive-date=June 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220610071654/https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-streamer-spends-nearly-4000-dollars-no-5-star-legendary-gems/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Other players on services such as [[Company:Twitter|Twitter]] and [[Company:Reddit|Reddit]] later revised these estimates to between {{Currency|300,000|USD}} and {{Currency|600,000|USD}}, due to the fact that reaching maximum levels of a legendary gem unlocks additional gem slots within items.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harris |first=Iain |date=June 27, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal fans estimate fully levelling a class could cost six times more than previously thought |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-fans-estimate-fully-levelling-a-class-could-cost-six-times-more-than-previously-thought/ |access-date=July 2, 2022|website=GamesRadar+}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Winslow|first=Jeremy|date=June 27, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal Could Run Your Wallet Way More Than You Thought|url=https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-build-microtransaction-legendary-gem-bl-1849112884|access-date=July 2, 2022|website=Kotaku|archive-date=July 2, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702202051/https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-build-microtransaction-legendary-gem-bl-1849112884|url-status=live}}</ref>

''Video Games Chronicle'' reported on the experience of YouTuber Raxxanterax, who noted he had easily lost to a "[[Glossary of video game terms#W|whale]]" player,<ref name="VGC Backlash"/> while ''PCGamesN'' documented the experience of another YouTuber, Wudijo, who had become powerful enough to survive the toughest battles on their server without spending any money (although they did note that not all members of the victorious clan were free-to-play).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Ed |date=June 23, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal player beats server boss without microtransactions |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/microtransactions-immortal-boss-f2p |access-date=June 27, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |archive-date=June 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627202625/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/microtransactions-immortal-boss-f2p |url-status=live }}</ref> Later reports also documented the experience of a player who spent "around $100k" on the game and achieved a battleground record too high for the game's matchmaking system to pair them with any other players, thereby preventing them from playing that game mode.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kennedy|first=Victoria|date=August 1, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal player spends $100k on game, now can't find anyone suitable to matchmake with|website=Eurogamer|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/diablo-immortal-player-spends-100k-on-game-now-cant-find-anyone-suitable-to-matchmake-with|access-date=August 1, 2022|archive-date=August 1, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220801141909/https://www.eurogamer.net/diablo-immortal-player-spends-100k-on-game-now-cant-find-anyone-suitable-to-matchmake-with|url-status=live}}</ref> Additional negative sentiment was directed at the discovery of hidden caps for in-game rewards, which the game does not make explicit to players.<ref name=":69">{{Cite web|last=Bains|first=Callum|date=June 14, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal punishes free-to-play players with hidden progression caps|url=https://www.techradar.com/uk/news/diablo-immortals-hidden-progression-caps-punish-free-to-play-players/|access-date=July 5, 2022|website=[[TechRadar]]|archive-date=July 6, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706003313/https://www.techradar.com/uk/news/diablo-immortals-hidden-progression-caps-punish-free-to-play-players|url-status=live}}</ref> Such caps include a daily limit on the number of "legendary" level items dropped, and on the number of rewards available from side-quests and random events.<ref name=":69"/><ref>{{Cite web |last=Allsop |first=Ken |date=June 9, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal loot caps slow down free-to-play grind |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/loot-caps-hidden/ |access-date=July 5, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |archive-date=July 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705235907/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/loot-caps-hidden |url-status=live }}</ref>

Following the controversy over the game's microtransaction costs, a number of ''Immortal's'' most notable [[Video game live streaming|live streamers]] and community figures publicly announced their separation from the game. This included a community ''Diablo'' website announcing that they would be closing their ''Diablo Immortal'' section and removing all of their previously-published guides for it.<ref name=":72">{{Cite web |last=Allsop |first=Ken |date=June 30, 2022 |title=Even more Diablo Immortal streamers quit as exodus continues |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/streamers-quit-maxroll |access-date=July 2, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |archive-date=July 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220701100959/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/streamers-quit-maxroll |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":74">{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Ed |date=July 4, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal fansite yeets all its guides into the sun |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/deleted-guides-microtransactions |access-date=July 4, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |archive-date=July 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220704144421/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/deleted-guides-microtransactions |url-status=live }}</ref> The website cited the "predatory pay-to-win system", exploiting "gambling addiction" and "unrewarding gameplay" as the key reasons for the decision, concluding that "we cannot in good faith continue to cover this game".<ref name=":72"/><ref name=":74"/>

In response to negative sentiment around the game's monetization, Blizzard representatives stated that "the monetization comes in at the end game ... hundreds of millions of people can go through the whole campaign without any costs", cited "high user reviews on the App Store" of the game's success, and informed the ''{{wipe|Los Angeles Times}}'' that "50% of players have never played a Diablo game before" and "the vast majority of players aren't spending money".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Carter|first=Chris|date=July 8, 2022|title=Blizzard says Diablo Immortal microtransactions are OK because "vast majority" isn't spending money|url=https://www.destructoid.com/blizzard-says-diablo-immortal-microtransactions-are-ok-because-vast-majority-isnt-spending-money/|access-date=July 8, 2022|website=[[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]]|archive-date=July 8, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220708193432/https://www.destructoid.com/blizzard-says-diablo-immortal-microtransactions-are-ok-because-vast-majority-isnt-spending-money/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Third-party Eternal Orb sales ====
During the initial months after the game's launch, some third-party [[Finance:Reseller|reseller]] websites (often supported by proceeds from stolen credit cards)<ref name=":50" /><ref name=":54" /> made it possible for players to purchase reduced-price "Eternal Orbs" outside of the game's built-in process;<ref name=":50" /> however, in September 2022 (in response to player requests for action, and due to the associated [[End-user license agreement|EULA]] violations),<ref name=":50" /><ref name=":54" /> Blizzard removed any orbs from players which were purchased in this manner. Given that many of these orbs had already been spent by players on in-game items, this reduction often resulted in a negative balance, which multiple publications termed "orb debt."<ref name=":50" /><ref name=":55">{{Cite web |last=Allsop |first=Ken |date=September 14, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal whales in 'orb debt' will be banned from PvP |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/orb-debt-pvp |access-date=September 19, 2022 |website=PCGamesN |language=en-GB |archive-date=September 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220917155409/https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/orb-debt-pvp |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":58">{{Cite web |last=Bailey |first=Dustin |date=September 14, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal's 'orb debt' whales are losing access to PvP, and legit players are thrilled |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortals-orb-debt-whales-are-losing-access-to-pvp-and-legit-players-are-thrilled/ |access-date=September 19, 2022 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en |archive-date=September 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220920171738/https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortals-orb-debt-whales-are-losing-access-to-pvp-and-legit-players-are-thrilled/ |url-status=live }}</ref> For one top player, this debt amounted to the equivalent of approximately {{Usd|34000|2022}}–{{Usd|35000|2022}}.<ref name=":55" /><ref name=":54" /> Blizzard released an official statement to accompany this action:<ref name=":50" /><blockquote>"We have been looking into abnormal Eternal Orb purchases that have been reported among the community, and taken actions to prevent players from purchasing Eternal Orbs through unofficial channels. Investigations have been made for accounts that have participated in these activities, and disciplinary measures were implemented against accounts that were found to have violated the Blizzard End User License Agreement. We will continue to monitor and take actions as needed."<ref name=":50" /></blockquote>Players with such negative balances became unable to join in-game "parties" and other group activities, such as dungeons and rifts;<ref name=":55" /> but (following further player requests),<ref name=":54" /><ref name=":58" /> Blizzard took additional action in the subsequent weeks, releasing a game update preventing any player in "orb debt" from participating in player-versus-player activities.<ref name=":55" /><ref name=":58" /> This was again accompanied by a public statement from Blizzard, saying that "transactions with unauthorized sellers [create] a risk — not only to [a player's] own account, but to our greater player community."<ref name=":54" />

=== Sales and revenue ===

Within the first week of release, Blizzard announced ''Diablo Immortal'' as having the biggest launch in the ''Diablo'' franchise's history, having reached over ten million downloads.<ref name=":61">{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Andy |date=June 10, 2022 |title='Diablo Immortal' is franchise's "biggest launch" despite being Blizzard's worst-rated game |url=https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/diablo-immortal-is-franchises-biggest-launch-despite-being-blizzards-worst-rated-game-3244596 |access-date=June 14, 2022 |website=NME |archive-date=June 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614172304/https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/diablo-immortal-is-franchises-biggest-launch-despite-being-blizzards-worst-rated-game-3244596 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":63">{{Cite web |last=Scullion |first=Chris |date=June 10, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal is the 'biggest launch in franchise history', Blizzard says |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/diablo-immortal-is-the-biggest-launch-in-franchise-history-blizzard-says |access-date=June 15, 2022 |website=Video Games Chronicle |archive-date=June 15, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220615122410/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/diablo-immortal-is-the-biggest-launch-in-franchise-history-blizzard-says |url-status=live }}</ref> They later announced that, it had reached over 20 million global installs by July 24, 2022,<ref name=":81">{{Cite web |last=Vikki |first=Blake |date=July 24, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal has topped over 20 million installs |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/diablo-immortal-has-topped-over-20-million-installs/ |access-date=July 25, 2022|website=GamesRadar+}}</ref> and over 30 million downloads by July 29, 2022.<ref name=":83">{{Cite web|last=Rich |first=Stanton |date=August 1, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal hits 30 million players, estimated to have raked-in over $100 million|website=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/diablo-immortal-hits-30-million-players-estimated-to-have-raked-in-over-dollar100-million/ |access-date=August 1, 2022}}</ref> Activision Blizzard's second-quarter financial results for 2022 (which cited ''Immortal'' as the reason for its increase from 22 million monthly users to 27 million) indicated that 50% of ''Diablo Immortal'' player accounts to-date were newly-registered with Blizzard, suggesting (due to Blizzard's player sign-in requirements) that they had likely not played any prior ''Diablo'' game.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Capel|first=Chris|date=August 2, 2022|title=50% of Diablo Immortal players never played a Diablo game|url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/diablo-immortal/players-new|access-date=August 3, 2022|website=PCGamesN}}</ref>

According to the AppMagic data tracking service, ''Immortal'' generated over {{Currency|790000|USD}} within its first 24 hours, and $14.5 million within its first week.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Obedkov|first=Evgeny|date=June 3, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal generates almost $800k in first 24 hours since its launch on mobile|url=https://gameworldobserver.com/2022/06/03/diablo-immortal-generates-almost-800k-in-first-24-hours-since-its-launch-on-mobile/|access-date=June 14, 2022|website=Game World Observer}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Obedkov|first=Evgeny|date=June 10, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal generates $14.5 million on mobile in 1 week, Blizzard calls it "biggest launch in franchise history"|url=https://gameworldobserver.com/2022/06/10/diablo-immortal-generates-14-5-million-on-mobile-in-1-week-blizzard-calls-it-biggest-launch-in-franchise-history/|access-date=June 14, 2022|website=Game World Observer}}</ref> This figure had reached $24 million within the game's first two weeks (making it Blizzard's second-highest-earning game, after [[Software:Hearthstone|Hearthstone]]).<ref>{{Cite web|last=Igor|first=Bonifacic|date=June 19, 2022|title='Diablo Immortal' has reportedly earned $24 million since release|url=https://www.engadget.com/diablo-immortal-24-million-181125633.html|access-date=June 27, 2022|website=[[Software:Engadget|Engadget]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Wilken|first=Shawn|date=June 20, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal Reportedly Has Earned Over $24 Million for Blizzard|url=https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-earned-24-million-dollars-blizzard/|access-date=June 27, 2022|website=Game Rant}}</ref><ref name=":81"/> As of July 4, 2022, it was reported that the game was grossing in excess of {{Currency|1 million|USD}} per day (with a daily peak of {{Currency|2.4 million|USD}} ten days after its launch).<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kaonang|first=Glenn|date=July 4, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal Reportedly Making More Than $1 Million Per Day|url=https://gamerant.com/diablo-immortal-microtransactions-profit-huge/|access-date=July 4, 2022|website=Game Rant}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Young|first=Georgina|date=July 5, 2022|title=Diablo Immortal makes over $1 million a day in microtransactions|url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2022/07/diablo-immortal-microtransactions-revenue-1-million|access-date=July 5, 2022|website=[[Software:USA Today|USA Today]]}}</ref> According to the App Store analytics firm Sensor Tower, the game surpassed {{Usd|100,000,000}} in revenue within its first eight weeks.<ref name=":82"/><ref name=":83"/>

== References ==
<references />

== Further reading ==
* {{Cite web |last1=Marks |first1=Tom |title=Diablo: Immortal's Reveal Was an Unnecessary Mess |work=IGN |date=November 6, 2018 |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/11/07/diablo-immortals-reveal-was-an-unnecessary-mess |language=en-US |access-date=November 9, 2018}}
* {{Cite web|last1=Schreier|first1=Jason|title=Some Theories About The Diablo Immortal Backlash|work=Kotaku|date=November 8, 2018|url=https://kotaku.com/some-theories-about-the-diablo-immortal-backlash-1830315221|language=en-US|access-date=November 9, 2018}}
* {{Cite web |last=Byrd |first=Matthew |date=June 6, 2022 |title=Why Diablo Immortal Does (and Doesn't) Deserve All the Hate |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/diablo-immortal-controversies-review-bombs-explained/ |access-date=June 25, 2022 |website=Den of Geek}}
* {{Cite web |last=Jiang |first=Sisi |date=June 14, 2022 |title=What Diablo Immortal Means For The Future Of Gaming |url=https://kotaku.com/diablo-immortal-blizzard-metacritic-f2p-1849059627 |access-date=June 25, 2022 |website=Kotaku}}
* {{Cite web |last=Koch |first=Cameron |date=June 23, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal Is Exactly What Fans Feared It Would Be |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-immortal-is-exactly-what-fans-feared-it-would-be/1100-6504870/ |access-date=July 22, 2022 |website=GameSpot}}
* {{Cite web |last=Dowd |first=Trone |date=July 5, 2022 |title='Diablo Immortal' Shows Self-Regulation Is a Failure in the Games Industry |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/5d3pex/diablo-immortal-shows-self-regulation-is-a-failure-in-the-games-industry |access-date=July 5, 2022 |website=Vice}}
* {{Cite web |last=Hashimoto |first=Kazuma |date=July 21, 2022 |title=Diablo Immortal's microtransactions aren't an anomaly – they're expected |url=https://www.polygon.com/23271691/diablo-immortal-microtransactions-economy-genshin-impact-final-fantasy-brave-exvius |access-date=July 22, 2022 |website=Polygon}}

== External links ==

{{Diablo series}}

[[Category:Action role-playing video games]]
[[Category:Massively multiplayer online role-playing games]]
[[Category:Android (operating system) games]]
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[[Category:Windows games]]

{{Sourceattribution|Diablo Immortal}}