Abyssal Lich

Barbarian

Druid

Necromancer

Paladin

Rogue

Sorcerer

Spiritborn


<p>Blizzard has released a new hotfix for Diablo 4 to address a dangerous bug that is linked to one of <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/#seasonal_powers_%E2%80%93_divine_gifts">Season 11&#8217;s Divine Gifts</a>.</p>



<p>The hotfix temporarily disables the <strong>Corrupted aspect of Essence of Hellfire</strong> after it was found to interact incorrectly with meteors, which was causing some unexpected player deaths. Blizzard also confirmed that only the corrupted effect is disabled, but the Divine Gift rewards themselves remain unchanged.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized has-custom-border"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/corruptedhellfireessence.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 117589" style="border-radius:8px;width:386px;height:655px" width="386" height="655"/></figure>



<p>According to Blizzard, the corrupted aspect is planned to return in a future update once the issue is resolved.</p>



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            <a class="source-link" target="_blank" href="https://us.forums.blizzard.com/en/d4/t/hotfix-2-december-19-2025-250/237977"><span class="white">(</span> Source URL <span class="white">)</span> </a>
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    <h3>HOTFIX 2 &#8211; December 19, 2025 &#8211; 2.5.0</h3>
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<h3 class="character-details-wrap">Bug Fixes</h3>
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<div class="post__regular regular post__contents contents">
<div class="cooked">
<ul>
<li>The Corrupted aspect of Essence of Hellfire has been temporarily disabled due to an interaction with the meteors, causing unexpected player deaths.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote><p>*Note: The rewards from this Divine Gift are not affected. We are looking to bring back the corrupted aspect in a future update.</p></blockquote>
</div>
</div>
    </div>
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<p>Blizzard also included a reminder of fixes from the previous hotfix earlier this month:</p>



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            <a class="source-link" target="_blank" href="https://us.forums.blizzard.com/en/d4/t/hotfix-2-december-19-2025-250/237977"><span class="white">(</span> Source URL <span class="white">)</span> </a>
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    <h3>HOTFIX 1 &#8211; December 12, 2025 &#8211; 2.5.0</h3>
    <div class="blizzard-blue-post-content">
        <h3><a class="anchor" href="https://us.forums.blizzard.com/en/d4/t/hotfix-2-december-19-2025-250/237977#p-2044748-bug-fixes-2" name="p-2044748-bug-fixes-2"></a>Bug Fixes</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fixed an issue where some items could not be Sanctified.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the rewards for defeating Echo of Lilith could be earned multiple times.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where players who were gifted Diablo IV Products did not receive them.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where some players were unable to access Vessel of Hatred content.</li>
<li>Various performance and stability improvements.</li>
</ul>
    </div>
</div>



<p>If you were experiencing sudden deaths related to Hellfire meteors, this hotfix should prevent that behavior for now.</p>



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<p>For more hotfixes, balance changes, and Season 11 updates, head over to our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/">Diablo 4 news hub</a>.</p>


Corrupted Hellfire Power Is Temporarily Disabled in Diablo 4


<p>With <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diablo 4 Season 11</a>, tempering and masterworking got a few changes, and it turns out there is a small, easy-to-miss feature that a lot of players do not seem to know about.</p>



<p>When <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/tempering-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tempering</a> now, you still pick the affix you want and roll it onto your item. You can reroll it to try for a higher value, swap it for a different affix, or just stick with what you got. Nothing new there. However, things change when you are out of reroll attempts, and there is a small trick that makes things much faster and saves you time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Secret Temper Trick</h2>



<p>The confusion mostly comes from <strong>Scrolls of Restoration</strong>. They are no longer physical items, but materials, and you use them directly from the tempering menu by clicking the small reroll button next to the item.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/d4-temper-reroll.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 117463"/></figure>



<p>Because of that, many players assume they have to use scrolls <strong>one by one</strong>. So you click to gain one extra temper try, roll once, then repeat.</p>



<p>But here is the trick: <strong>you do not have to</strong> do that at all!</p>



<p>You can <strong>click </strong><span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>the reroll button multiple times in a row and instantly stack up</strong>&nbsp;</span>multiple additional temper tries. No rolling in between, no extra clicking, you just stack your tries, and then roll until you get your maxed-out affix. It does not change the odds or the results, but it does save a surprising amount of time, especially if you are tempering a lot of gear or really trying to get the perfect roll.</p>



<p>It is just a small thing, but definitely worth knowing.</p>



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<p>For more guides or information, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">check out our latest content</a>!</p>


Diablo 4 Players Are Wasting Time Tempering in Season 11


<p>The <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/best-paladin-builds-endgame-speed-leveling-diablo-4/">Paladin is now available</a> in Diablo 4 <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/">Season 11</a>, and Blizzard has released a short lore video that takes a closer look at who these warriors of the Light really are. It is a quick watch, but it does a nice job of setting the tone for the class and its place in Sanctuary.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Who The Paladins Really Are</h2>



<p>The video explains that Paladins in Diablo are not part of any church or holy order. They follow no priest, no king, and no single doctrine. <strong>Their strength comes from the Light itself, which cannot be granted or claimed. It answers only to those who act with conviction and a righteous heart.</strong></p>



<p>Paladins are described as relentless hunters of evil, feared even by Hell. They do not wait for darkness to spread. They actively seek it out, marching forward as an army bathed in Light, ready to defend Sanctuary at any cost. The lore behind it is about the idea of duty and resolve rather than mercy or gentle faith.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hunters Of Darkness, Feared By Hell</h2>



<p>The video also reinforces that <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/three-pillars-of-power-how-diablo-4s-paladin-commands-the-light/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the <strong>Light</strong></a><strong> is not about purity or obedience. It is about action. Anyone willing to stand against the horrors of Sanctuary can wield it</strong>, and those who do become a force that nightmares themselves learn to fear.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Diablo IV | Season of Divine Intervention | Paladin Lore" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IhgTuFkJR3o?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Diablo IV | Season of Divine Intervention | Paladin Lore</figcaption></figure>



<p>If you want a more personal look at this path, Blizzard recently also shared a short comic-style story showing one character&#8217;s journey to becoming a Paladin, which adds some extra context to what drives someone to take up the Light.</p>



<p>-> <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/the-journey-to-becoming-a-paladin-in-diablo-4/">The Journey To Becoming A Paladin In Diablo 4</a></p>



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<p>For other updates on the game and Lord of Hatred, head back to our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/">Diablo 4 news hub</a>.</p>


A Short Lore Look At The Paladin And The Light In Diablo 4


<p>If Corrupted Essences suddenly stop dropping in <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/">Diablo 4 Season 11</a>, it is not bad luck, and it is not a bug. There is a hard inventory cap in place. Once you are holding 20 Corrupted Essences in your inventory, bosses will simply stop dropping more.</p>



<p>This applies to Corrupted Essences from lair bosses such as <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/uber-duriel-boss-guide/">Duriel</a>, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/uber-andariel-boss-guide/">Andariel</a>, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/belial-boss-guide/">Belial</a>, and others.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How the Corrupted Essence Cap Works</h2>



<p>The limit is directly related to how many Essences you are carrying <strong>in your inventory</strong>:</p>



<ul>
<li>Corrupted Essences stop dropping once you have 20 or more</li>



<li>They can still drop at 19, even if a stack pushes you over the cap</li>



<li>At 20 or higher, boss kills and chest openings will not give you more</li>
</ul>



<p>This is an intentional limit. Farming more bosses will not bypass it.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized has-custom-border"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/d4-s11-corrupted-essence-andariel.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 117248" style="border-radius:8px;width:672px;height:401px" width="672" height="401"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stash Does Not Help Here</h2>



<p>Putting Corrupted Essences into your stash does not reset the drop limit. The game only checks how many of these items you have in your inventory, not how many you own overall.</p>



<p>Because of that, it is very easy to waste lair boss runs if you keep farming while already capped.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Avoid Wasting Boss Runs</h2>



<p>To avoid losing out on drops, it helps to keep an eye on your Essence count:</p>



<ul>
<li>Spend Corrupted Essences before you hit the 20 cap</li>



<li>Use them on Azmodan near Zarbinzet to open extra chests</li>



<li>Try to stay below 20 while <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/lair-boss-system-guide/">farming Lair Bosses</a></li>



<li>If you are close to the cap, leave dropped Essences on the ground and pick them up later</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized has-custom-border"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/d4-s11-corrupted-essence-summoning-altar.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 117249" style="border-radius:8px;width:821px;height:462px" width="821" height="462"/></figure>



<p>Once your count drops below 20 again, Corrupted Essences will start dropping as normal.</p>



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<p>For more Season 11 updates and Lord of Hatred news, head over to our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/">Diablo 4 hub</a>.</p>


There Is a Cap on Corrupted Essences in Diablo 4 Season 11


<p>A new patch will be released for Diablo 4 on <strong>December 18</strong>. It is not a big patch, but it does bring quite a lot of bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements. </p>



<p>Most of the changes focus on making tooltips clearer, improving stability, and fixing problems that have been bothering players since the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">release of season 11</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Small but Helpful Base Game Changes</h2>



<p>A few tooltips and UI elements have been fixed. </p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Heavenly Sigils</strong> now have better descriptions</li>



<li><strong><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/season-rank/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Season Rank objectives</a></strong> have been adjusted
<ul>
<li>The objective for clearing <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/the-pit-of-the-artificers-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pit Tier 40</a> has been changed to Pit Tier 35 instead</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p>There are also small but welcome changes like a new <strong>audio signal for safe zones</strong> in the Vault of the Crucible <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/capstone-dungeons-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Capstone Dungeon</a>, and better tooltip information for <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/azmodan-world-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">summoning <strong>Azmodan</strong></a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Expansion and Paladin Fixes</h2>



<p>A big part of this patch targets issues <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/paladin/builds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">linked to the <strong>Paladin</strong></a>. Several bugs affecting Sanctification, Tempering affixes, Justice skills, Resolve stacks, and movement speed have been fixed.</p>



<p>Quest progression problems have also been addressed, including issues that could block Paladin quests or prevent players in the Eternal Realm from completing the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/kurast-undercity-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kurast Undercity questline</a>. </p>



<p>The <strong>Herald of Hatred pet</strong> will also finally stop randomly running off. </p>



<p>On top of that, Blizzard also mentions a few other fixes for the Paladin, such as:</p>



<ul>
<li>Tooltips</li>



<li>Icons</li>



<li>Descriptions to make things more consistent and clear</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gameplay and Accessibility Improvements</h2>



<p>Capstone Dungeons were addressed as well, including changes to bosses resetting incorrectly, players getting stuck, and enemies spawning endlessly in certain encounters.</p>



<p>On the gameplay side, Blizzard fixed issues with Helltide rewards, Animus drops, <strong>Thorns damage reflecting and killing players</strong>, and Sanctification affixes malfunctioning. Accessibility also got a small update, with Screen Reader support improved in the Wardrobe&#8217;s Ensembles tab.</p>



<p>The patch ends with a variety of fixes to cosmetics, challenges unlocking incorrectly, material costs during tempering, and even a leaderboard that was visible despite having no entries. Blizzard also disabled the remaining visual and audio effects linked to one Divine Gift after players reported it bugging out.</p>



<p>With all that, the new season should feel much better for everyone!</p>



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            <a class="source-link" target="_blank" href="https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/article/24244466/diablo-iv-patch-notes"><span class="white">(</span> Source URL <span class="white">)</span> </a>
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    <h3>2.5.1 Build #69864 (All Platforms) December 18, 2025</h3>
    <div class="blizzard-blue-post-content">
        <h1>Game Updates</h1>
<h2>Base Game</h2>
<ul>
<li>Updated descriptions and tooltips for Heavenly Sigils so the requirements for sanctifying an item are clearer.</li>
<li>The Season Rank objective for clearing Pit Tier 40 has been changed to now require a Pit Tier 35 clear instead.</li>
<li>Various UI consistency and clarity improvements for Sanctification and Season Rank.</li>
<li>An audio cue has been added to further bring attention to the safe zones in the Vault of the Crucible Capstone Dungeon.</li>
<li>The altar to summon Azmodan has additional info added to the tooltip to better explain the requirements for summoning Azmodan.</li>
</ul>
<h1>Bug Fixes</h1>
<h2>Expansion</h2>
<ul>
<li>Fixed an issue where Paladins could not get a Strength affix from Sanctification.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Extra Damage for Justice Skills Tempering affix didn&#8217;t apply properly.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the damage increase from Judgement Consumption granted by Virtuous Charge didn&#8217;t properly apply.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where Arbiter of Justice did not benefit from Reach of the Law when Judgement of Uriel was equipped.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Seraph&#8217;s Wings upgrade for Arbiter of Justice granted higher than intended movement speed.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Resolve Stacks from the Aspects of Dominance and Valiance could fall off randomly.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the gauge meter for Arbiter of Justice could stop draining, even though the buff itself reduced properly.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where Runes for the Paladin could not be randomly crafted at the Jeweler.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the initial questline to go through Kurast Undercity couldn&#8217;t be completed for players in the eternal realm.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Paladin quest, <i>Call of the Paladin</i> could have progression blocked if the associated monsters were slain by nearby NPCs.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Herald of Hatred pet would often turn unstoppable and run away from the player.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the objective to Speak to Sihek during the <i>Deeds of a Champion</i> quest would shift the quest pin location incorrectly.</li>
<li>Various fixes and improvements to consistency, accuracy, and clarity for tooltips, descriptions, and icons for the Paladin.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Base Game</h2>
<h3>Accessibility</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Screen Reader did not read all information in the Ensembles Tab in the Wardrobe.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Capstone Dungeons</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fixed an issue where the boss in the Hellish Descent could fully reset if the player entered specific locations in the boss arena.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the player could get stuck between the wall and the barrier in Enclave of Darkness.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the player respawned at the previous floor when dying during the boss encounter in Enclave of Darkness.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where Azmodan&#8217;s demon gate attack could spawn outside the boss arena in Breach of Sin.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where monsters could infinitely spawn in Breach of Sin.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Gameplay</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fixed an issue where monsters spawned by Animus Carriers also dropped Animus.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where Tortured Gifts failed to respawn if Helltide re-appeared in the same region where it was previously.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where access to Divine Gifts could be lost when playing in Local Co-Op.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where Meteors spawned by the Essence of Hellfire could reflect Thorns damage back onto the player.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Sanctification Affix for adding quality could malfunction.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where Sorcerer&#8217;s Flame Shield Enchantment would fail to activate if Flame Shield was equipped to the Skill Bar and Orsivane was equipped.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Miscellaneous</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fixed an issue where the visual and audio effects for the Essence of Squalor Divine Gift persisted in town.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote><p><strong>Developer’s Note: </strong><em>These effects has been disabled entirely.</em></p></blockquote>
<ul>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Spectral Shiver Cosmetic bundle would be missing even if it was properly owned.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Leaderboard was viewable, despite having no entries there.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where tempering Legendary Ancestral Armor required more material types than intended.</li>
<li>Fixed an issue where the Resolute Defender Challenge could be unlocked when not playing as a Paladin.</li>
<li>Various stability, UI, visual, performance, and audio improvements.</li>
</ul>
    </div>
</div>


Diablo 4 Patch Focuses on Bug Fixes and QoL Adjustments


<p>Outside of the fact that we will get <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-next-expansion-announcement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lord of Hatred</a> in less than half a year, Blizzard has also shared another small but important detail in the expansion overview, and it could have a big impact on how <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diablo 4</a> plays going forward. Buried in the description is a confirmation that the level cap will increase for every class when the expansion launches in April 2026. It is just one line, but it is already causing plenty of discussion between players.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What the Level Cap Increase Changes</h2>



<p>Simply put, raising the level cap stretches out character progression. Players will spend more time <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-season-11-best-builds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">leveling before hitting the true endgame</a>, instead of getting there as quickly as they do now.</p>



<p>Those extra levels also mean more skill points to play with, giving you more freedom to modify your build, test things out, and put even more focus into new specific builds. The big difference is that you will not feel stuck with one build as early, and progression should feel slower, but also more rewarding.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Endgame Progression Will Take Longer</h2>



<p>One major side effect is how this impacts Paragon Boards. Because Paragon only unlocks at the level cap, increasing it pushes endgame a bit further out and requires players to put in more time before getting there.</p>



<p>This might be a good addition, depending on how the skill trees are changed. The expansion also comes with a <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/massive-skill-tree-rework-coming-in-diablo-4-lord-of-hatred/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complete skill tree rework</a>, so having more points to allocate might actually be needed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Not Everyone Is Convinced</h2>



<p>For some, that is a downside, especially players who feel like they are being pushed further away from content they have already unlocked in previous seasons.</p>



<p>Most welcome the change, though, arguing that longer progression makes endgame goals feel more meaningful instead of rushed. Up until now, you could reach endgame in two days and be done with the game after. All those new upcoming systems and adjustments might finally mean that you can extend what you do over the full season, rather than rushing it under a week.</p>



<p>Either way, this small line in the expansion overview could end up being one of Lord of Hatred&#8217;s most impactful changes!</p>



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<p>For more guides and information about Diablo 4, take a look at <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our seasonal overview</a>!</p>


Blizzard Confirms a Level Cap Increase for Diablo 4


<p>Experience gain in <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/">Diablo 4 Season 11</a> feels very different compared to previous seasons when it comes to bosses. Right now, killing bosses gives a lot of experience, often<strong> more than most other activities</strong> for the same amount of time.</p>



<p>This stands out early on, especially once Paragon levels come into play. It is not uncommon to see big jumps from a single boss kill, and in some cases, even a full Paragon level from one fight.</p>



<p><strong>Boss farming stands out this season because:</strong></p>



<ul>
<li>Boss kills grant very large XP chunks compared to most other activities</li>



<li>Early Paragon levels can jump by a full level from a single kill</li>



<li>World bosses are especially rewarding, even early on</li>



<li>Bossing still feels worth doing even when drops are bad</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bosses Are Now a Strong XP Option</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/lair-boss-system-guide/">Lair bosses</a>, summoned bosses, and world bosses all award significant experience on kill this season. Boss-focused farming routes feel much more rewarding than before, even when drops do not go your way.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Lair-Bosses-Ladder.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image 67896" style="border-radius:8px"/></figure>



<p>World bosses in particular provide massive XP bursts. Joining one early can push characters forward extremely quickly, sometimes skipping large portions of the early leveling curve in one fight.</p>



<p>Compared to previous seasons, bossing no longer feels like something you only do for loot. The XP alone now makes it a very strong progression path.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Much Better Endgame Flow</h2>



<p>One of the best improvements that came with Season 11 is how endgame activities compare to each other. Boss farming now works as well as <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/the-pit-of-the-artificers-guide/">the Pit</a>, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/kurast-undercity-guide/">Undercity</a>, and <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/nightmare-dungeon-guide/">Nightmare Dungeons</a> as a competitive farming option, instead of one activity clearly outperforming everything else.</p>



<p>Bossing tends to feel strongest early on; however, Pit runs still scale better later once high tiers can be cleared quickly. This makes it easier to switch things up without feeling forced into one specific grind.</p>



<p>On top of that, boss farming also still feels good during dry streaks. Even when the loot that drops is not great or useful to your build, the XP gains mean you are still making progress.</p>



<p>Blizzard has not directly called out boss XP changes in the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-iv-season-of-divine-intervention-what-is-new-in-season-11/">original Season 11 patch notes</a>, but in practice, <strong>bosses are clearly one of the most efficient ways to gain experience right now.</strong></p>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<p>For more Season 11 and Lord of Hatred updates, head over to our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/">Diablo 4 news hub</a>.</p>


Boss Farming Gives Massive XP in Diablo 4 Season 11


<p>Blizzard has just shared a new <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/treasure-goblins-and-holiday-gifts-are-coming-back-to-diablo-4/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">holiday-themed promotion for Diablo 4</a>, part of which lets players claim free cosmetic items directly from the in-game Shop over multiple days.</p>



<p>The rewards are available for a limited time and <strong>can be claimed without spending any Platinum.</strong></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Free Diablo 4 Holiday Gifts Schedule</h2>



<p>To get your free gifts, you just have to log in and collect <strong>one free cosmetic per day</strong> on the following dates:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>December 18</strong> – Tackle of the First Snows (Mount Trophy)</li>



<li><strong>December 19</strong> – Fallow-ward (Mount Trophy)</li>



<li><strong>December 20</strong> – Crook of First Snow (Mount Armor)</li>
</ul>



<p>All rewards <strong>must be claimed</strong> <strong>by January 6</strong>, after which they will be removed from the Shop.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/d4-free-gifts-holidays-2025.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 117084" style="border-radius:8px"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Claim the Free Items</h2>



<p>To claim the cosmetics, <strong>simply open the</strong> <strong>in-game Shop</strong> on the listed dates and add the item to your account. <strong>Once claimed, the cosmetics are permanently unlocked.</strong></p>



<p>Blizzard shared the announcement as part of a festive message on the <a href="https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/article/24243642/goblins-and-gifts-galore-in-goblin-greedings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">official Diablo 4 blog</a> to encourage players to log in during the holiday period. Sure, it is a small thing, but free cosmetics are always nice to grab during the holidays.</p>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<p>For more Diablo 4 events, season updates, and more, check out our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/">Diablo 4 news hub</a>.</p>


Diablo 4 Is Giving Away Free Holiday Mount Cosmetics


<p>Diablo 4&#8217;s new class is out right now, and most players have already spent some time leveling their Paladin since the launch of Season 11. At this point, the biggest focus is gearing up, speed farming, and pushing endgame content.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Best Paladin Endgame Push Builds</h2>



<p>Once you are geared enough, the Paladin has multiple top-tier builds that you can choose from for pushing Diablo 4&#8217;s endgame. This includes activities like the Pit, Infernal Hordes, Nightmare Dungeons on Torment IV, and more. <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/paladin/builds/">Endgame builds</a> are able to handle high enemy density, longer fights, and challenging mechanics without falling apart. </p>



<p>You can also find our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-season-11-best-builds/">tier list for all classes</a> if you want to see how the Paladin compares to the rest of the roster.</p>



<p><strong>Make sure to click on the build of your choice to get forwarded to the respective build page!</strong></p>



<div id="tier-list-4b700356-786f-4ce4-bf88-ed7f67c4e09c" class="wp-block-iv-tier-list-tier-list"><table><tbody>
<tr><td class="s-tier">S</td><td>
<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/blessed-hammer-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Blessed Hammer Judicator Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/spear-of-the-heavens-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Spear of the Heavens Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/blessed-shield-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Blessed Shield Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/arbiter-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Arbiter Disciple Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/arbiter-evade-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Arbiter Evade Blessed Hammer</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>
</td></tr>



<tr><td class="a-tier">A</td><td>
<a class="tier-list-build-card card-none paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/zealot-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Zealot Paladin</span></a>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Speed Farming Builds</h2>



<p>Before pushing endgame or while upgrading gear, efficient farming becomes the main priority. Speed farming builds focus on mobility, fast clears, and keeping downtime low while running Nightmare Dungeons, Helltides, the Undercity, or other repeatable content.</p>



<p>These builds are ideal for gathering gear, materials, and currency quickly.</p>



<div id="tier-list-b73482b9-8c69-4d1b-b37a-2549dfce48c3" class="wp-block-iv-tier-list-tier-list"><table><tbody>
<tr><td class="s-tier">S</td><td>
<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/arbiter-evade-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Arbiter Evade Blessed Hammer Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/spear-of-the-heavens-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Spear of the Heavens Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/arbiter-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Arbiter Disciple Hammer Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/blessed-shield-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Blessed Shield Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>
</td></tr>



<tr><td class="a-tier">A</td><td>
<a class="tier-list-build-card card-none paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/blessed-hammer-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Blessed Hammer Judicator Paladin</span></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-none paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/zealot-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Zealot Paladin</span></a>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Boss Killer Builds</h2>



<p>At the end of the road come the bosses. Boss killer builds focus on strong single-target damage and reliability, which makes them ideal for farming Uniques, Mythic items, and harder encounters. If your goal is to take down bosses as cleanly and quickly as possible, these are the builds to pick from.</p>



<div id="tier-list-f68fc857-cfa9-4879-8b34-16d92e947789" class="wp-block-iv-tier-list-tier-list"><table><tbody>
<tr><td class="s-tier">S</td><td>
<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/spear-of-the-heavens-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Spear of the Heavens Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/blessed-shield-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Blessed Shield Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/arbiter-evade-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Arbiter Evade Blessed Hammer Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/arbiter-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Arbiter Disciple Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>
</td></tr>



<tr><td class="a-tier">A</td><td>
<a class="tier-list-build-card card-none paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/blessed-hammer-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Blessed Hammer Judicator Paladin</span></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-none paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/zealot-paladin-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Zealot Paladin</span></a>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Leveling Builds</h2>



<p>If you are still leveling or planning a second Paladin, the class has many strong options that make the journey to max level quick and comfortable.</p>



<p>Paladins rely on holy damage, shields, and durable melee combat. Many builds focus on area damage or passive effects that clear enemies while you stay on the move, which makes the class easy to adapt to early on.</p>



<p>So, if you want a closer look at Paladin mechanics, skills, and playstyle strengths, our Paladin leveling build guides go over all of it in a lot more detail.</p>



<div id="tier-list-1db248eb-bcc6-4e56-8f4a-2025e4535412" class="wp-block-iv-tier-list-tier-list"><table><tbody>
<tr><td class="s-tier">S</td><td>
<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/blessed-hammer-paladin-leveling-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Blessed Hammer Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>



<a class="tier-list-build-card card-up paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/divine-lance-paladin-leveling-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Divine Lance Paladin</span><i class="ri-arrow-up-double-fill"></i></a>
</td></tr>



<tr><td class="a-tier">A</td><td>
<a class="tier-list-build-card card-none paladin-card Paladin" href="/d4/guides/zeal-paladin-leveling-build" data-filter="Paladin"><span class="card-build-title">Zeal Paladin</span></a>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div>



<p>That covers everything you need to get started with Paladin. For more updates, builds, and balance changes, head over to our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/">Diablo 4 hub</a>.</p>


Best Paladin Builds for Endgame, Speed Farming, and Leveling


<p>Treasure Goblins are <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">back in Diablo 4</a>, and they are bringing gifts with them. Blizzard has announced <strong>Goblin Greedings</strong>, a limited-time holiday event full of extra goblins, reputation rewards, free cosmetics, and bonus loot.</p>



<div class="blizzard-blue-post">
    <div class="d-flex align-items-center">
        <div>
            <img decoding="async" class="blizzard-logo" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/static/public/blizzard-icon-small.png" alt="Blizzard Logo" />
        </div>
        <div>
            <a class="source-link" target="_blank" href="https://us.forums.blizzard.com/en/d4/t/goblins-and-gifts-galore-in-goblin-greedings/237317"><span class="white">(</span> Source URL <span class="white">)</span> </a>
        </div>
    </div>
    <hr class="blizzard-line" />
    <h3>Goblins and Gifts Galore in Goblin Greedings</h3>
    <div class="blizzard-blue-post-content">
        <p>Goblin Greedings descends on Sanctuary as Treasure Goblin variants roam in increased numbers and bountiful spoils. Earn bonus Whisper Caches and claim free holiday cosmetics.</p>
<p><a href="https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/article/24243642" data-clicks="1" aria-label="View Full Article link clicked 1 time">View Full Article</a></p>
    </div>
</div>



<p>The event runs from <strong>December 18 to January 6, 2026</strong>, giving players a few weeks to hunt goblins and get all the rewards!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Crush Goblins, Earn Tiered Rewards</h2>



<p>During Goblin Greedings, Treasure Goblins spawn across all realms, and slaying them contributes to a special <strong>March of the Goblins reputation board</strong>.</p>



<ul>
<li>You must <strong>personally kill Treasure Goblins</strong> to progress</li>



<li>Unlocking new tiers <strong>improves the loot bags</strong> goblins drop</li>



<li>Each tier unlock grants reward caches</li>
</ul>



<p>Once you unlock a tier, head to <strong>Goblin Square in Kyovashad</strong> to claim your rewards.</p>



<p>The final tier is repeatable, and on your first completion, it rewards a <a class="icy-gtnbrg-link" href="#"><span class="icy-gtnbrg-tooltip"><img decoding="async" class="icy-gtnbrg-tooltip-img" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/static/d4/latest/images/icons/2DInventory_Quest_MiscTrinkets_11.webp" alt="Resplendent Spark"><span class="tooltip-spell-name" data-item-type="Crafting Material" data-item-quality="normal">Resplendent Spark</span></span></a>, making this event especially worth doing.</p>



<p>Keep in mind that all rewards must be claimed <strong>before January 6</strong>, or they are gone.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/d4-goblins-santas.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 117039"/></figure>



<p>The event is also the perfect moment to use all your Nightmare Dungeon keys that have the <strong>Treasure Breach affix</strong>! This affix guarantees Goblins will spawn, so you should get even more Goblins appearing in your dungeon during the event. And if you are lucky enough, you might even get a <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-mythic-prankster-nightmare-dungeon-affix/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mythic Prankster goblin!</a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bonus Gifts From the Tree of Whispers</h2>



<p>During the event, <strong>Grim Favors</strong> are getting a holiday bonus as well.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/tree-of-whispers-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Turning in Grim Favors</a> will grant an extra <strong>Gift of the Tree cache</strong>, called a <strong>Collection of Chaos</strong>, on top of the usual rewards. Open your cache to receive the festive bonus loot!</p>



<p>Between increased Treasure Goblin spawns, tiered rewards, a <a class="icy-gtnbrg-link" href="#"><span class="icy-gtnbrg-tooltip"><img decoding="async" class="icy-gtnbrg-tooltip-img" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/static/d4/latest/images/icons/2DInventory_Quest_MiscTrinkets_11.webp" alt="Resplendent Spark"><span class="tooltip-spell-name" data-item-type="Crafting Material" data-item-quality="normal">Resplendent Spark</span></span></a>, bonus Tree caches, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-free-holiday-mount-cosmetics-shop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and free cosmetics</a>, <strong>Goblin Greedings</strong> is one of the more generous limited-time events Diablo 4 has had in a while.</p>


Corrupted Hellfire Power Is Temporarily Disabled in Diablo 4

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Bug Fixes

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