Titan Comics has announced a new Diablo comic for early 2026, and the timing is interesting. Dawn of Hatred #1 releases on February 11, 2026, and the story takes place after Diablo 4 and after Vessel of Hatred. Blizzard has been very quiet about the game’s long-term plans lately, so this comic might be the first thing that continues the story in any way.
Akarat’s Return and What the Story Focuses On
The plot focuses on Akarat, the founder of the Zakarum faith, who somehow returns from the dead. He is back to spread peace and Light, heals the leader of the Fox Tribe, and quickly gathers followers again. Not everyone is convinced, though. The comic follows Derris, a member of the tribe who does not trust how quickly things are changing, and Vrexia, another outsider who joins the caravan.
Things seem to escalate when assassins attack Akarat, forcing Derris to choose between helping him or letting the tribe deal with the fallout on its own. The preview snippet of the comic also hints at the usual Sanctuary theme: even if someone arrives with good intentions, violence eventually finds its way back.
There is also some bigger lore context worth keeping in mind. The Angiris Council is still recovering after the events of Diablo 3. Heaven is sealed, two Council seats are empty, and angelic forces are weakened. Meanwhile, Hell is reorganizing, and Inarius’s followers are still active. With Vessel of Hatred out for a while and the upcoming expansion being planned for 2026, the timing feels rather deliberate.
How To Pre-Order Dawn of Hatred
The comic has several cover variants, including foil editions and a sketch cover. Physical copies can be pre-ordered through most comic shops, and Titan Comics has online options for different regions.
Nothing confirms that Dawn of Hatred is directly connected to Diablo 4’s next expansion, but the release window and the story placement sure make it feel like something worth keeping an eye on.
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