Since the first game, the Diablo franchise has incorporated followers and mercenaries as a significant aspect of its gameplay. But, does Diablo 4 include a follower system? Here is all the information you need to know.
Ever since our first Golem was summoned from a spellbook in Diablo 1, it has been enjoyable to fight alongside AI companions in the series. In fact, followers have become a staple in the Diablo games, with each installment pushing the boundaries even further. Some games have even offered the ability to summon minions, resurrect the deceased, hire mercenaries, or team up with other characters for the entire duration of the game, creating unique and dynamic partnerships.
Despite this, Diablo 4 introduces numerous updates to the franchise, shifting its attention towards multiplayer gameplay, open-world structure, and live service features. Here’s everything you should be aware of regarding Diablo 4’s follower system and its distinctions from previous installments.
You can become quite attached to your mercenary in Diablo 2.
Mercenaries and Followers in Diablo
Unfortunately, Diablo 4 does not include mercenaries for hire like in Diablo 2, where players were able to enlist the help of mercenaries equipped with armor and weapons to assist them in battling the forces of Hell.
In every town, a unique type of warrior was available and certain classes found the combat abilities of some mercenaries more advantageous than others. For instance, the Sorceress, who was less physically resilient, found great value in hiring a strong Barbarian to charge into battle while she used spells to attack demons from a distance. Conversely, classes that excelled in close-quarter combat were better off with a mercenary who could offer ranged or elemental assistance.
In Diablo 3, full-time followers were introduced to take the place of mercenaries. These followers each had their own background stories, distinct talents, and combat techniques. In the first Act of the game, the player character encountered the Templar, Scoundrel, and Enchantress, who then became their companions on their journey. Depending on the follower’s skills and individual traits, they would have exclusive dialogue when accompanying any of the Diablo 3 character classes.
The Crusader class and the Templar share many common values and abilities, which allows them to get along well. Similarly, the Wizard and Enchantress also have a strong rapport. However, it takes time for classes such as the Necromancer and the Scoundrel to develop a bond, especially initially. Eventually, all classes form strong friendships with the three followers, but the true joy lies in the journey and the amusing conversations they have along the way.
In a similar fashion to Diablo 2, specific combat styles of followers are suitable for different classes. For instance, Barbarians and Crusaders can make use of ranged or elemental assistance from the Scoundrel or Enchantress, while classes that focus more on magic may find the durable Templar to be a valuable ally in combat. Pairing classes with followers that complement their style or provide something that is lacking can be an enjoyable experience.
The Enchantress, Templar, and Scoundrel are all helpful followers in Diablo 3.
Number of Followers in Diablo 4
The follower system from Diablo 3 has been abandoned in Diablo 4. While this may disappoint fans who enjoyed this feature in previous Diablo games, it is possible that it could be added in the future.
Despite including followers, Diablo 4 primarily features characters who join the player during missions in the game’s storyline, rather than traditional hirelings or long-term party members. Similar to Leah in Diablo 3, this system is utilized more frequently in Diablo 4 compared to previous installments.
The developers have made sure to include a companion in many of the storyline quests, with some even featuring two or three companions. This serves to aid players in combat and maintain a steady flow of exposition as they explore the depths of dungeons.
Despite not having the same level of tactical precision as it did in Diablo 3, this new system is still heavily centered on co-op play. In Diablo 4, the game encourages players to team up with fellow adventurers and embark on group explorations, rather than relying on interactions with NPCs.
Are mercenaries included in the DLC?
According to a leaked datamine that was posted on Reddit, it is possible that hired mercenaries will be included in the first paid expansion DLC for Diablo 4, which is currently known as Vessel of Hatred.
According to the leak, the upcoming DLC could take place in Kurast, a familiar setting from Diablo 2, and potentially bring back hirelings to assist players in combat. The leak reveals numerous files and activities related to mercenaries, hinting at their possible significance in the expansion.
Despite our efforts, we were unable to find any records of the Iron Wolves, a group of hired fighters who were active in Kurast during the events of Diablo 2. It will be intriguing to see whether the Iron Wolves make a reappearance or if the mercenaries in Diablo 4 belong to a separate faction.
The Seneschal Companion will be introduced in Season 3.
Seasonal Player Community in Diablo 4
The Seneschal Companion was introduced during Season 3 of Diablo 4 through the Seasonal Questline. This companion will assist you in battle and can be tailored to suit your preferred playstyle. It is the first of its kind in Diablo 4, and many are hoping that it will also become available in the Eternal Realm after Season 3.
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