Blizzard Entertainment has unveiled an enticing holiday promotion for fans of its iconic action role-playing game by making Diablo IV free to play across all platforms until January 3, 2025. This strategy not only aims to draw new players but strategically counters the excitement surrounding the recent launch of Path of Exile 2.
The free-to-play period allows players to explore Diablo IV’s rich universe without financial commitment during the festive season. Included within this promotional offering is the new Spiritborn class, which combines melee combat with nature-inspired magic, adding fresh experiences for both newcomers and returning gamers. Yet, it's important to note this promotion only covers the base game. The popular Vessel of Hatred campaign remains excluded from the free trial. Interestingly, Blizzard is also running holiday sales with the core title at 40% off alongside the expansion pack, offering players additional incentives to invest.
This move seems to be a direct response to the launch of Path of Exile 2 on December 8, which has attracted over 400,000 players concurrently on Steam. Contrast this with the roughly 12,000 players reported on Diablo IV at the same time, and it’s apparent Blizzard hopes to regain its audience. Some analysts believe they are trying to prevent players from switching over completely to the rival game by providing this attractive offer just before Christmas.
Players stepping back from Diablo IV after their initial dip will find the free trial period provides substantial gameplay—up to level 25 and late stages of the Act 1 campaign. On average, if one chooses to focus primarily on the core storyline, the game can take approximately 20 hours to explore. Despite being positioned as primarily online, players can approach the game as a single-player experience, enhancing its appeal.
For those who may have previously hesitated to buy the game or invest time, now is the perfect moment to test the waters. Blizzard is promoting this trial quite prominently, encouraging players with engaging messages on social media. Their recent tweet stated, “For a limited-time, play #DiabloIV and the new expansion class on Xbox, PlayStation and Battle net for free,” which clearly conveys their excitement about the upcoming holiday period.
Today’s gaming audience is diverse, and Blizzard is evidently aware of the competition. The push to go free-to-play during such significant holiday times creates urgency and interest among gamers. Players can evaluate whether to invest their time and money without risk at this pivotal moment.
The decision by Blizzard to initiate this promotional period contrasts starkly with the challenges to its popularity presented by the launch of Path of Exile 2. Since the original Path of Exile released over ten years ago, it has established itself as the premier alternative for fans of the genre who appreciate its challenging gameplay and rich crafting systems.
The timing of this free trial is also seen as quite generous, considering some players spent nearly £100 for early access to Diablo IV just last year. With the sustained pressure from competitors and the need to retain its dedicated player base, Blizzard is betting big on this promotional tactic, hoping to secure both short- and long-term engagement from its audience.
By offering the core game for free and incorporating elements to entice budding adventurers, Blizzard is attempting to create lasting connections with modern gamers who are always on the lookout for value.
Whether this holiday promotion can translate clicks and downloads back to significant player engagement over the new year remains to be seen. Still, for now, Blizzard’s gambit appears to be spot-on for enticing players to return, fight their way through the hellish armies, and immerse themselves once again within the brooding storylines of Diablo IV.
