Revealed at the last BlizzCon and generating quite a buzz, 'Diablo 5' is set to be a much more build-focused game than its predecessor, according to the director.

Chris Wilson, former game director of 'Path of Exile', uploaded a retrospective video on the 28th to celebrate the announcement of Diablo 5, heavily criticising the combat mechanics. Wilson argued that Diablo 4 is a dexterity (DEX)-focused action RPG that relies heavily on quick reflexes and evasion skills, marking a huge departure from the intelligence (INT) and strength (STR)-based structure of 'Diablo 2' where character progression, forward planning, and strategic builds mattered most. Wilson pointed out that this shift has led to a loss of the weighty feel and classic charm unique to traditional action RPGs.

Seemingly mindful of this analysis, Diablo 5 Director Joe Shely took to X on the 30th to hint that Diablo 5 will add much more strategic depth than the previous entry. Director Shely stated, "While Diablo 5 will retain some of the DEX systems that demand split-second execution, it will overall be a game rooted in INT and STR where planning and investment take centre stage," adding, "We are designing the game according to the core action RPG principle that building the right setup lets you overcome any obstacle."

This aligns closely with remarks made by developers regarding Diablo 5 during the last BlizzCon event. Blizzard mentioned on the BlizzCon floor that, to recapture the vibe of older titles, classic elements that disappeared due to simplified loot systems—such as multi-inventory slot-occupying gear—will make a glorious return.

Meanwhile, Chris Wilson also criticised Blizzard's approach to developing Diablo in the video. Wilson claimed the announcement of Diablo 5 is merely a ploy to halt active support for Diablo 4 and hand the game over to a skeleton crew, noting this could severely erode player trust in such a long-standing franchise. Wilson further added that the 30th-anniversary content 'Legacy of Hell' season resurrects characters who died in the original lore, features Prime Evils as side content that distorts the story's causal relationships, and simply does not fit the world of the main campaign.