Diablo 4 DLC’s Runewords: Expanding Player Class Abilities

The upcoming Vessel of Hatred expansion for Diablo 4 will introduce Runewords, enabling players to tap into the abilities of different character classes.

Blizzard first introduced Runewords to the Diablo universe in the Lord of Destruction expansion of the second game. These combinations of runes enhanced the magical properties of gear items with sockets.

Despite not appearing in Diablo 3 or any of its additional content, the system of Runewords will be included in Diablo 4 for players who buy the Vessel of Hatred expansion, as confirmed during Blizzard’s August 29 Campfire Chat.

During the conversation, the developers reassured that the system will preserve the essence of Diablo 2 Runewords, allowing users to merge socketable components and create even more formidable equipment. However, players can anticipate a few modern enhancements to the system.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ux9zeqdMF-g

Diablo IV | Campfire Chat 2.0 PTR Update | August 2024 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ux9zeqdMF-g)

The Runewords Overview can be found at the 1:56:40 mark in the video above.

In Diablo 4, Runes play a crucial role in crafting spells through two distinct types – Ritual Runes and Invocation Runes. To create a Runeword, both types of Runes must be inserted into an item with two sockets.

The Offering, which Ritual Runes generates for linked Invocation Runes to consume, is a new resource that the system introduces.

Owners of the Vessel of Hatred DLC will have the option to exchange them with other DLC owners, as well as acquire them through loot drops from defeating monsters.

With the introduction of Runewords in Diablo 4, players will now have the ability to access powers from other classes. A combination of a Ritual Rune and a Wat Invocation Rune will allow any class to cast the Necromancer’s Horrid Decrepify.

Discovering the Legendary Yom Invocation Run will bring one closer to successfully invoking Druid’s Petrify.

diablo 4 runewords — Blizzard Entertainment

The Campfire Chat held by Diablo 4 developers also included confirmation that players will have the ability to create Runes for Runewords. By combining three identical Runes, a new and distinct Rune will be generated.

These items will also be useful when creating Mythic Uniques at the Jeweler, although the procedure necessitates a specific Rune and a Resplendent Spark.

When Vessel of Hatred launches on October 8, players will have the opportunity to personally try out all of the features mentioned above and more.