Why Gamer Reviews For Diablo 2: Resurrection Are Tanking
"Diablo 2" was a genre defying game, changing the landscape of ARPGs for a generation. So it's no surprise Activision Blizzard wanted to give it a refresh in a time where remakes and remasters of classic games like those from "Resident Evil" are in such high demand. "Diablo 2: Resurrected" is now available on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, PS4, PS5 and Nintendo Switch. This new version differs from the classic dungeon crawler by making significant visual improvements and subtle gameplay updates while leaving core elements unchanged to ensure fans are still getting the classic "Diablo 2" experience. It promised to be a nostalgia-fueled trip back through the bloody hellscape that put the series on the map which could tide fans over until they finally get their hands on "Diablo 4".
Unfortunately, many of the reviews coming out in days since its release have been less than kind. There seems to be a large disparity between the mostly positive critical reviews and the fans that are dragging down the game's score across a multitude of platforms. So, why are fans who loved the original tanking reviews for the new refresh? Apparently, "Diablo 2: Resurrection" is a mess of bugs and server issues.
Critics and gamers are split
Sometimes the review cycle doesn't allow critics to really dive into the nooks and crannies of a game, or spend enough time with them for certain problems to reveal themselves. Most critical reviews of "Diablo 2: Resurrection" have been positive. The PC version has an 82 on Metacritic with reviewers praising its improved visuals while admitting gameplay additions are sparse. Most review don't seem to address the primary complaints gamers are reporting. The only one to notably criticize that game's stability seems to be from Dexerto. "The game is a perfect blend of nostalgia and freshness, and is likely to lure in players both old and new. However, look a little closer and the experience is plagued by a host of irritating bugs that spoil the homecoming," the outlet reported
The user score, on the other hand, wallows at a lowly 4.8 out of 10, with many disgruntled gamers nicknaming Blizzard's new title "Diablo 2: Refunded." User reviews on consoles seem to be even worse, with the Switch Metacritic score coming in at a measly 4.4. User gaslor stated, "The game looks amazing, but technical state is borderline terrible. There are players (me included) that cannot play the game for hours." User angmarec said "amazing graphics and atmosphere, but terrible technical side. Tons of bugs even in singleplayer. Online still [does] not work properly. Even Vicarius can't fix Blizzard." Graphical improvements are always appreciated, but rarely at the cost of a game being playable.