Diablo IV Reveals Warlock Class Deep Dive, Paladin Free Trial, and Season of Slaughter

Blizzard Entertainment has revealed a wave of new content heading to Diablo IV, including a deep dive into the upcoming Warlock class arriving with Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred on April 28. The action RPG is currently available for PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One & Series X|S, and PC via Steam and Battle.net, with players soon able to explore new seasonal content, a limited-time Paladin trial, and additional enemies as Sanctuary prepares for its next expansion.

Image Credit: Blizzard Entertainment

The spotlight begins with a closer look at the Warlock, a dark spellcaster set to debut alongside the Lord of Hatred expansion. This sinister class draws power directly from demonic forces, summoning creatures from the depths of Hell and bending them to its will. Players will be able to shape their playstyle through a system built around Soul Shards and Fragments, which bind different demons and significantly alter combat strategies. By combining and commanding these infernal companions, Warlocks can create powerful synergies while venturing through the cursed lands of Sanctuary.

Alongside this reveal, Blizzard is also offering players a chance to try the Paladin for free during a limited trial period running from March 11 to March 18. During this event, players across Battle.net, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms can experience the base version of Diablo IV and play the Paladin class up to level 25. It marks the first time the Paladin will be available to try without purchasing the expansion in advance. Those who decide to pre-purchase Lord of Hatred can continue their journey afterward, permanently unlocking the class and carrying over their progress.

Another major update arrives in the form of Season of Slaughter, launching March 11. For the first time in the franchise’s history, players will be able to transform into the infamous Butcher during gameplay. The season introduces several new activities tied to this brutal theme, including Shrines of Slaughter in Helltide zones, the Ceremony of Slaughter in the Fields of Hatred, and a new activity called Slaughterhouses. A new Killstreak system will also reward players who defeat enemies rapidly, granting experience and seasonal reputation when streak timers conclude.

Season of Slaughter will additionally feature a crossover with DOOM: The Dark Ages, bringing cosmetics inspired by the iconic demon-slaying franchise into Sanctuary. Players will be able to earn themed rewards such as the Shield Saw skin, the Slayer’s Flail weapon, and a Head of the Cyberdemon back trophy through a large free Reliquary, while additional cosmetic items will be available through the in-game shop.

Looking ahead to the Lord of Hatred expansion itself, Blizzard promises a substantial increase in enemy variety. According to the developer, the expansion will feature roughly twice as many monsters as Diablo IV’s previous expansion, Vessel of Hatred. Players will encounter a wide range of new threats including sea monsters, twisted chimeric abominations, and returning foes from earlier entries in the series, such as the grotesque Rat King, massive Beasts, and terrifying abyssal Merfolk.

Warlock Deep Dive & Season 12 Overview Trailer