Blizzard has deployed a critical hotfix for Diablo 4's Season 5 Public Test Realm (PTR), primarily addressing the new Infernal Hordes mode and streamlining item management. This patch, released swiftly after the June 25th PC PTR launch, tackles several player-reported issues. These proactive adjustments aim to optimize the Diablo 4 experience ahead of Season 5's August 6, 2024, release.
Season 5 introduces Infernal Hordes, a roguelite endgame mode featuring unique boss encounters and over 50 new farmable items. These additions enhance gameplay across all classes (Barbarian, Rogue, Druid, Sorcerer, Necromancer), improving abilities and simplifying mechanics such as boss summoning and resource consolidation.
The June 26th hotfix significantly alters item acquisition: salvaging Infernal Hordes Compasses (tiers 1-3) now yields an Abyssal Scroll, with higher tiers granting extra scrolls. Furthermore, completing Nightmare Dungeons, Helltide Chests, and Whisper Caches now guarantees a Compass drop, boosting progression. A bug causing Abyssal Scrolls to vanish has also been resolved; they now remain in inventory unless actively used, sold, or discarded.
Positive Player Reception and Future Content
The Season 5 PTR has garnered positive community feedback, especially the ability to resummon defeated bosses without restarting the encounter. This simplifies farming and showcases Blizzard's commitment to player feedback. These improvements enhance both convenience and engagement by reducing repetitive tasks.
With the upcoming Vessel of Hatred DLC—introducing Neyrelle's transformation and the Spiritborn class—these gameplay refinements are particularly timely. The DLC promises a richer narrative, and the improved mechanics should create a more immersive experience.
The anticipated Spiritborn class, rumored to possess nature-based abilities, expands strategic options and gameplay diversity. Coupled with ongoing updates, this content refresh maintains player engagement, evidenced by the enthusiastic community response.
Diablo 4 PTR Hotfix Notes - June 26
Game Updates:
- Salvaging Tier 1-3 Infernal Hordes Compasses now rewards an Abyssal Scroll.
- Salvaging Tier 4+ Compasses grants an additional Abyssal Scroll per tier (e.g., 6 scrolls for a Tier 8 Compass).
- Completing Nightmare Dungeons, Helltide Chests, and Whisper Caches now guarantees an Infernal Hordes Compass.
Bug Fixes:
- Resolved an issue where Abyssal Scrolls could disappear from inventories. They now persist unless used, sold, or manually removed.
