Diablo 2: Resurrected loses a feature of the original game

Diablo 2: Resurrected will not include a feature seen in the original game – TCP / IP multiplayer. Blizzard cites security risks as the reason for removing the feature.

Buried at the bottom of an FAQ related to the game’s open beta, Blizzard explained why the option, which allowed players of the original Diablo 2 to play multiplayer via LAN or other peer-to-peer connections at the instead of on official Blizzard servers, will not be included anymore.

“TCP / IP support will not be available in the next beta or final game,” the blog post states. “After careful deliberation, we will no longer support this option as we have identified potential security risks and are committed to protecting the player experience.”

In an interview with Eurogamer earlier this year, Diablo franchise director Rod Fergusson pointed out that the feature will be included in the final game.

“You can still connect locally via TCP IP if you want!” said Fergusson. “It was there in D2. It will be there in D2R. We really focused on making sure that if there’s something about the core experience that you liked, we bring it in. But we do. let’s get a lot of benefits from being on a more secure platform. “

Blizzard has stressed that it is looking to change as little as possible for Diablo 2: Resurrected. This is not a remake, but a remaster, seeking to improve the visuals of the game and make slight quality of life improvements without changing what gamers loved about the original. The Diablo 2: Resurrected Early Access Beta begins August 13 for players who pre-order the game on any platform (except Nintendo Switch), with an open beta starting August 20.

Diablo 2: Resurrected beta and upcoming September 23 release come as Activision Blizzard addresses fallout from California lawsuit accusing company of fostering “frat boy” culture of harassment and discrimination against women. The lawsuit and Activision Blizzard’s management response resulted in massive employee walkouts and led to the departure of former Blizzard chairman J. Allen Brack.