Diablo IV Vessel of Hatred: First Gameplay, Boss Fights and Cinematics

Blizzard Entertainment has scheduled the release of Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred for April 28, 2026. The expansion, developed by Blizzard Team 3 and Blizzard Albany, will be available on Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.

The narrative centers on the efforts to stop Mephisto, the Prime Evil of Hatred. According to official campaign summaries, the story follows the aftermath of Lilith’s defeat, focusing on Neyrelle’s struggle to contain Mephisto as his corruption spreads toward the sacred isles of Skovos. This new region serves as a primary setting for the expansion’s campaign.

The expansion introduces two new playable classes: the Paladin and the Warlock. The Paladins are described as former outcasts and sinners reborn through the Wardens of Light, an order dedicated to defending Sanctuary. The class features several distinct combat specializations: The Arbiter, who can ascend into an Angelic Form for increased speed and clarity; The Zealot, who utilizes fervor and conviction to fuel attacks; The Judicator, who employs celestial bombardments; and The Juggernaut, who converts absorbed damage into retribution.

The Warlock class is characterized as masters of forbidden knowledge capable of bending demons and the powers of Hell to their will. While the Warlock arrives with the expansion, the Paladin class has been made available in the base game for players who pre-purchase the Lord of Hatred expansion.

Recent gameplay demonstrations have provided a first look at the expansion’s mechanics, including 12 minutes of footage showcasing the initial steps on Skovos and the first encounter with a boss. These previews accompany a released cutscene titled “Queen and Saint.”

Beyond new classes and regions, Blizzard is implementing systemic gameplay changes. These include an overhaul of endgame activities and the reintroduction of the Horadric Cube for gear crafting, a mechanic returning from previous titles in the series. The expansion is positioned as a follow-up to the Vessel of Hatred expansion, and bundles are available that unlock both the base game and the subsequent expansions.

The expansion was first announced during The Game Awards on December 11, 2025. Parallel to the expansion’s development, the game’s live service continues with the Season of Slaughter, which introduces a demonologist narrative and the ability for players to transform into The Butcher.

The full expansion will launch on April 28, 2026.