This might be a dealbreaker to some, but it is worth mentioning. Just before Diablo 2: Resurrected starts this 13th August, Blizzard announces in an FAQ that it will be removing the old-fashioned way of playing the game.

Blizzard has removed TCP/IP support connections (local network) just ahead of the beta launch, despite previously announcing that the final game will support the feature. Here’s the portion of the FAQ:

Q: Will TCP/IP support be available in the Early Access to Open Beta tests?

A: TCP/IP support will not be available in the upcoming Beta or the final game. After careful deliberation, we will no longer be supporting this option as we identified potential security risks and are committed to safeguarding the player experience.

Why is this important? Because some players would like to play the game over LAN but also play online using a third-party tool like Hamachi or GameRanger, circumventing Battle.net. The downside to this is that you’re using local save files, meaning you will encounter hacks and cheaters if you’re playing with strangers.

TCP/IP multiplayer is also the only way to quickly reroll maps without external tools when speedrunning the game on normal difficulty. Popular mods such as Median XL, Path of Diablo and Project Diablo 2, have their own dedicated servers, meaning this change makes it impossible to play the less popular mods online with remastered graphics and features.

It does suck though, but for most of us who want to play the game as is, only the most hardcore of fans will miss this option. Many detractors will add this in the long line of Blizzard cockups; right now the company is currently under fire for its many, many workplace kerfuffles.

The Diablo 2: Resurrected beta will be out on 13 August for those who pre-ordered the game and 20th August for the rest. It’ll be out for Xbox Series, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, and PC.