Blizzard released Diablo 2: Resurrected on Steam yesterday, ending its Battle.net exclusivity that began with the 2021 remaster. The Steam version carries Valve's Steam Deck Verified badge, confirming full compatibility with the handheld PC.
The Steam launch coincides with "Reign of the Warlock," the first new Diablo 2 content in 25 years. The $24.99 DLC introduces a demon-summoning Warlock class that can bind and devour enemies for temporary buffs. An Infernal Edition bundle including the base game and DLC sells for $39.99.
Diablo 2: Resurrected originally launched in 2021 as a visual overhaul of Blizzard's 2000 action RPG. The remaster preserved the original gameplay while updating graphics, audio, and cinematics. Until yesterday, PC players could only purchase it through Blizzard's Battle.net platform.
Steam Deck verification means the game meets Valve's standards for handheld play. The badge indicates proper controller support, readable text, and stable performance.
This expands Diablo 2's accessibility beyond traditional desktop setups. Proper charging is essential for Steam Deck performance.
The Warlock class represents Blizzard's first major addition to Diablo 2 since 2001's Lord of Destruction expansion. Developers built the character to feel like it belonged in the original game, integrating subtle nods to Diablo 1 icons in its skill tree.
"Reign of the Warlock" adds more than just a new class. Enhanced Terror Zones let players choose which acts receive difficulty boosts and better rewards. Hell difficulty introduces Heralds of Terror stalker enemies and five mystical statues that unlock the Colossal Ancients boss fight.
Quality-of-life improvements include built-in loot filters, improved stash tabs with stacking, and a Chronicle system for tracking collected items. The update also adds Steam Achievements, giving players new goals beyond the existing Battle.net progression.
Blizzard timed the Steam release with Diablo's 30th anniversary celebrations. The company announced the Warlock will also appear in Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred on April 28 and in Diablo Immortal this summer. Cross-game rewards include Kervek the Putrid Pet and the Forbidden Tethers Back Trophy in Diablo IV, plus a Horadric Cube housing item for World of Warcraft.
Diablo 2: Resurrected maintains its requirement for a constant internet connection, even on Steam. Players still need a Battle.net account linked to their Steam version for online play. The game supports eight-player cooperative sessions and seasonal ladder resets.
The Steam release follows years of player requests for platform choice. Blizzard's move mirrors broader industry trends of publishers expanding beyond proprietary launchers. Sony has similarly found success with cross-platform releases. Valve's hardware focus with Steam Deck likely influenced the verification effort.
Diablo 2: Resurrected is available now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and Battle.net. The "Reign of the Warlock" DLC launched simultaneously across all platforms yesterday.
