Genre: Action Role-Playing / Hack-and-Slash
Developer: Blizzard North
Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment
Year: 2001
Platform: Microsoft Windows
Diablo II + Lord of Destruction is the combined release of Diablo II and its official expansion, Lord of Destruction, developed by Blizzard North and published by Blizzard Entertainment. Released in 2001 for Microsoft Windows, the package includes the base game along with the expansion, which adds two new character classes—the Assassin and the Druid—as well as additional acts, items, and gameplay features.
The gameplay builds on the action RPG mechanics of the original Diablo II, combining fast-paced combat, character progression, and loot collection. Players can choose from seven character classes in total, each with unique abilities and skill trees, enabling diverse playstyles. Missions involve exploring dungeons, battling monsters, completing quests, and ultimately confronting powerful bosses to advance the story.
Lord of Destruction introduces a fifth act set in the Barbarian Highlands, featuring new environments, enemies, and the climactic confrontation with Baal, one of the Prime Evils. The expansion also adds the “Runeword” system for equipment, allowing players to combine specific items for powerful effects, as well as new high-level items and magical attributes, further expanding character customization and strategic options.
The combined release supports both single-player and multiplayer modes through Blizzard’s Battle.net service. Players can cooperate in campaigns, trade items, or engage in competitive PvP combat. The addition of new classes and content significantly increased replayability and provided a more comprehensive experience for both returning and new players.