Abyssal Lich

Barbarian

Druid

Necromancer

Paladin

Rogue

Sorcerer

Spiritborn


<p>Blizzard has just dropped a lot at the Game Awards. Not only is Diablo 4 getting a <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-next-expansion-announcement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new Lord of Hatred expansion</a>, but if you preorder it, you can play the new Paladin class right now with the start of <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Season 11</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Diablo IV Lord of Hatred Preorder Bundles</h2>



<p><span style="margin: 0px;padding: 0px">That&#8217;s right, if you preorder Diablo 4&#8217;s next expansion, Lord of Hatred, it </span>allows you to play the new Paladin class early, right now! But if you want to upgrade, you can get a lot of extra cosmetics. </p>



<p>Here is the list of everything you can get, from the Standard to the Ultimate Edition.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Standard Edition</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Diablo-IV-Lord-of-Hatred-Standard-Edition.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115828" /></figure>



<ul>
<li>Expansion 2: Lord of Hatred (Available April 28, 2026)</li>



<li>Paladin Early Access</li>



<li>Expansion 1: Vessel of Hatred</li>



<li>1 Extra Stash Tab</li>



<li>2 Additional Character Slots</li>



<li>World of Warcraft Decor Items</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Deluxe Edition</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Diablo-IV-Lord-of-Hatred-Deluxe-Edition.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115829" /></figure>



<ul>
<li>Expansion 2: Lord of Hatred (Available April 28, 2026)</li>



<li>Paladin Early Access</li>



<li>Expansion 1: Vessel of Hatred</li>



<li>1 Extra Stash Tab</li>



<li>2 Additional Character Slots</li>



<li>The High Heavensguard Paladin Cosmetic Bundle</li>



<li>Skartaran Basilisk Mount Bundle</li>



<li>Premium Battle Pass Bundle</li>



<li>Skorch, Mini Chimera Pet</li>



<li>World of Warcraft Decor Items</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ultimate Edition</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Diablo-IV-Lord-of-Hatred-Ultimate-Edition.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115830" /></figure>



<ul>
<li>Expansion 2: Lord of Hatred (Available April 28, 2026)</li>



<li>Paladin Early Access</li>



<li>Expansion 1: Vessel of Hatred</li>



<li>1 Extra Stash Tab</li>



<li>2 Additional Character Slots</li>



<li>The High Heavensguard Paladin Cosmetic Bundle</li>



<li>Skartaran Basilisk Mount Bundle</li>



<li>Premium Battle Pass Bundle</li>



<li>Skorch, Mini Chimera Pet</li>



<li>Umbral Knights Cross-Class Armor Bundle (6 Class Armor Sets)</li>



<li>Tymn, Echo of the Spire Back Trophy Reactive Cosmetic</li>



<li>Ascent of the Just Town Portal</li>



<li>Steed of the Shining Realm Mount Bundle</li>



<li>3,000 Platinum</li>



<li>World of Warcraft Decor Items</li>
</ul>



<p>Outside of the primary appeal, which is gaining access to the Paladin class early, there are also some extra rewards for WoW players. Even just for pre-purchasing the base edition, WoW players will also receive three Decor items for their house!</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Diablo-4-WoW-Decor-Items.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115831" /></figure>


Preorder Lord of Hatred to Unlock Paladin Early in Diablo 4


<p>With the Paladin now available in <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diablo 4 Season 11</a>, Blizzard has revealed a full set of Paladin-specific Unique items. Many of these Uniques are tied to <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/lair-boss-system-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">specific endgame bosses</a>, which makes them easier to target-farm once you know where to look.</p>



<p>Below is a full overview of which bosses can drop the new Paladin Uniques, including their Unique Powers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bosses &amp; New Unique Items</h2>



<p><strong>The Beast in The Ice</strong><br><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/the-beast-in-the-ice-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Beast in the Ice</a> has a chance to drop the following Paladin Uniques:</p>



<ul>
<li>Promise of Glory – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Flail</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Enemies struck by the first hit of Divine Lance take increased damage from its follow-up stabs.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Bastion of Sir Matthias – Paladin <strong>Shield</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Blocking has a chance to retaliate with Shield Bash, and Shield Bash deals increased damage.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>March of the Stalwart Soul – Paladin <strong>Amulet</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Advance deals increased damage, gains all Skill upgrades, and is treated as a Disciple, Juggernaut, and Zealot Skill.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Andariel</strong><br><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/uber-andariel-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andariel</a> can drop the following Paladin Uniques:</p>



<ul>
<li>Herald&#8217;s Morningstar – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Mace</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Blessed Hammer deals increased damage. Lucky Hit effects can spawn an additional base Blessed Hammer on the target hit.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Herald of Zakarum – Paladin <strong>Shield</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Gain increased Strength, Armor, Resistances, and Retribution Chance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Duriel</strong><br><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/uber-duriel-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duriel</a> has a chance to drop the following Paladin Uniques:</p>



<ul>
<li>Herald&#8217;s Morningstar – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Mace</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Blessed Hammer deals increased damage and can trigger additional hammers through Lucky Hit effects.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Supplication – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Sword</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Brandish now unleashes in all directions, dealing increased damage.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Griswold&#8217;s Opus – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Sword</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Dealing direct damage grants stacking Critical Strike Damage for each enemy hit. At maximum stacks, Critical Strikes can deal double damage, heal you, and refresh the duration of the bonus.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Varshan<br></strong><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/echo-of-varshan-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Varshan</a> has a chance to drop the following Paladin Unique:</p>



<ul>
<li>Ward of the White Dove – Paladin <strong>Shield</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Blessed Shield deals increased damage. Casting another Skill empowers your next Blessed Shield, doubling its bonus effect and reducing its Faith cost.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Lord Zir<br></strong><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/lord-zir-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lord Zir</a> can drop the following Paladin Uniques:</p>



<ul>
<li>Red Sermon – Paladin <strong>Two-Handed Sword</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Zeal deals increased damage and automatically gains the Death and Glory upgrade.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Sanctis of Kethamar – Paladin <strong>Pants</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Arbiter form increases Aura Potency and Wing Strike damage.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Cathedral&#8217;s Song – Paladin <strong>Shield</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Lucky Hit effects from Disciple and Ascension Skills can call down Spear of the Heavens on nearby enemies. Spear of the Heavens damage is increased.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Grigoire<br></strong><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/grigoire-the-galvanic-saint-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Grigoire</a> has a chance to drop the following Paladin Unique:</p>



<ul>
<li>March of the Stalwart Soul – Paladin <strong>Amulet</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Advance deals increased damage, gains all upgrades, and counts as a Disciple, Juggernaut, and Zealot Skill.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Urivar</strong><br><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/urivar-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Urivar</a> can drop the following Paladin Uniques:</p>



<ul>
<li>Promise of Glory – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Flail</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Enemies struck by the first hit of Divine Lance take increased damage from subsequent stabs.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Cathedral’s Song – Paladin <strong>Shield</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Disciple and Ascension Skills can trigger Spear of the Heavens through Lucky Hit effects, with increased damage.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Harbinger of Hatred<br></strong>The <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/harbinger-of-hatred-boss-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harbinger of Hatred</a> has a chance to drop the following Paladin Uniques:</p>



<ul>
<li>Supplication – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Sword</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Brandish strikes in all directions and deals increased damage.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Griswold&#8217;s Opus – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Sword</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Hitting multiple enemies builds up Critical Strike Damage, unlocking powerful bonuses at maximum stacks.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Herald of Zakarum – Paladin<strong> Shield</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Increases Strength, Armor, Resistances, and Retribution Chance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Paladin Uniques With No Confirmed Drop Source Yet</h2>



<p>The following Paladin Uniques were shown in preview images, but Blizzard has not yet confirmed their drop locations:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Sunbrand</strong> – Paladin <strong>One-Handed Flail</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Heaven’s Fury gains additional rays and deals increased damage.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><strong>Dawnfire</strong> – Paladin <strong>Gloves</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Holy Light becomes a damaging aura that deals Fire damage over time, stacking when enemies die within its range.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li><strong>Seal of the Second Trumpet</strong> – Paladin <strong>Ring</strong>
<ul>
<li>Unique Power: Judgement deals significantly increased damage and has a chance to trigger twice.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<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-s11-paladin-uniques-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115982" style="border-radius:8px"/></figure>



<p>These Uniques clearly show Blizzard leaning hard into Blessed Hammer, Divine Lance, Zeal, Shield-based gameplay, and Arbiter form. For Paladin builds and updates as <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Season 11</a> progresses, check out our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/paladin/builds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paladin Builds page</a>.</p>



<p>And for more information on all the items each boss can drop, you can check out our in-depth guide:</p>



<div class="aligncenter button-group">
<div class="centered"><a class="aligncenter custom-button" href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/how-to-farm-uniques-from-bosses/"><span>How to Farm Uniques from Bosses</span></a></div>
</div>



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



<p>You can find additional Diablo 4 updates and Season 11 coverage on our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/">Diablo 4 News hub</a>.</p>


Diablo 4 Paladin Uniques and Their Boss Drop Locations


<p>The Paladin already looked like the star of <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-next-expansion-announcement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diablo 4&#8217;s Lord of Hatred expansion</a>, but one of its most exciting features is an angelic transformation called <strong>Arbiter Form</strong>, and it is basically a full Tyrael-style form. </p>



<p>According to Blizzard, the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-reveals-paladin-class-at-the-game-awards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paladin in Lord of Hatred</a> is meant to embody over 25 years of Diablo legacy, returning as Sanctuary&#8217;s final beacon of divine authority as Mephisto&#8217;s corruption spreads. The classic Paladin with Auras and Holy Conjurations returns, but the expansion goes much further by letting the class literally <strong>ascend</strong>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A New Transformation Mode &#8211; Arbiter Form</h2>



<p>With Arbiter Form, players <em>&#8220;ascend to the Heavens and crash upon the battlefield</em>&#8221; for <strong>20 seconds</strong>, dealing damage on landing and gaining massive mobility and damage boosts. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://bnetcmsus-a.akamaihd.net/cms/page_media/FZQX3Y0H12GP1765310128694.gif" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Here is what Arbiter can grant:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Angelic Leap replaces Evade</strong>, letting you fly across the battlefield.</li>



<li><strong>Increased movement speed</strong> when transformed.</li>



<li><strong>Wing Strikes</strong> lash out automatically, damaging nearby enemies.</li>



<li><strong>Disciple Skills deal 50% increased damage</strong> with the Arbiter form.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-paladin-oaths-breakdown-of-the-new-class-mechanic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Using a <strong>Disciple Skill</strong></a><strong> with a cooldown</strong> grants Arbiter for a short time, letting players trigger mini-transformations during combat.</li>



<li>Wing Strikes can also inherit <strong>Disciple Skill benefits</strong>, adding even more bonuses.</li>
</ul>



<p>It is not just a cosmetic glow-up. Arbiter acts as a full combat mode, mixing movement, offense, and class mechanics in a way that is completely new for Diablo 4.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Tyrael-Inspired Form</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/d4-tyreal.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115974"/></figure>



<p>Blizzard describes Arbiter as a <strong>&#8220;</strong><em>radiant, Tyrael-inspired avatar of celestial justice</em><strong>.</strong>&#8221; Given how iconic Tyrael is in Diablo lore, this is most likely a nod to longtime fans, especially players who have wanted a true angel-themed class since the start.</p>



<p>Arbiter Form also reinforces the theme of the expansion, with corruption overwhelming Sanctuary, and Paladins standing as the last divine counterforce.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Game-Changer </h2>



<p>Between <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-paladin-brings-back-blessed-hammer-and-auras/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auras, Holy Conjurations</a>, and now a full angelic transformation, the Paladin is going to be one of Diablo 4&#8217;s most thematically strong classes to date. If Arbiter Form plays as well as it sounds, it could end up being the best and most fun class to play.</p>



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



<p>For more information and guides about Paladin, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">keep an eye on our latest news</a>!</p>


Diablo 4 Paladin Gets Angelic Arbiter Form in Lord of Hatred Expansion


<p>With Lord of Hatred introducing a <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-paladin-brings-back-blessed-hammer-and-auras/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new class</a>, a new region, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-lord-of-hatred-brings-back-the-horadric-cube/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new systems</a>, and the possible end of the Prime Evils storyline, you would think the most important feature <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-reveals-paladin-class-at-the-game-awards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">would be the Paladin</a>, Skovos, or even the new endgame.</p>



<p>But nope&#8230; Players instantly grabbed onto one unexpected new feature quietly mentioned in Blizzard&#8217;s overview, and it is <strong>fishing</strong>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fishing in Diablo 4</h2>



<p>In a single throwaway line, Blizzard confirmed that Sanctuary&#8217;s bravest demon slayers will soon be able to &#8220;<em><strong>find respite from slaying demons by Fishing in the waterways of Sanctuary.</strong></em>&#8220;</p>



<p>No further details were given, but Diablo fans immediately connected the dots with <strong>Diablo Immortal</strong>, that already features a full fishing system with hotspots, catch rarity tiers, and rewards. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/d4-immortal-fishing.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115958"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fishing in Diablo Immortal</figcaption></figure>



<p>There is a good chance Diablo 4&#8217;s version will follow a similar template. You can expect a relaxed downtime activity, progression rewards, and maybe some collectibles tied to <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/first-look-skovos-new-zone-expansion-diablo-4/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the new region of Skovos</a>.</p>



<p>And honestly, it feels like a nice addition. After years of slaying demons, fighting world bosses, and grinding endgame seasons, maybe the true salvation of Sanctuary was a fishing rod all along.</p>



<p>Fishing might just become a meme or a surprisingly addictive side system, but one thing is sure, it is already one of the most talked about additions to the expansion, proving once again that Diablo players will click on anything if you tell them it is a new endgame grind.</p>



<p>We will be getting our bait and rods ready for April for sure!</p>



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



<p>More details will be <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shared on our page</a> as we get closer to release!</p>


Forget the Paladin – Diablo 4’s Big New Feature Is Fishing


<p>When Blizzard revealed Lord of Hatred, most of the focus went straight to the Paladin. That makes sense. The holy warrior is playable right now for anyone who pre-purchases the expansion. But there is something else in the reveal that is just as important and easy to miss.</p>



<p><strong>Lord of Hatred is bringing two new classes to Diablo 4.</strong></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-loh-classreveal.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115914" style="border-radius:8px"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Paladin Is Just the First One</h2>



<p>Blizzard confirmed that the Paladin is only one half of the class additions coming with the expansion. The Paladin is <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/preorder-lord-of-hatred-to-unlock-paladin-early-in-diablo-4/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">available early right now through pre-purchase</a> and will &#8220;fully&#8221; launch with Lord of Hatred in April 2026.</p>



<p>It fills the role of a heavy, Holy warrior, with focus on melee combat and divine abilities, shields, as well as a strong frontline presence. That part is already <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-paladin-brings-back-blessed-hammer-and-auras/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">live and well understood</a>.</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-paladin-class-in-game.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115895" style="border-radius:8px"/></figure>



<p><strong>What comes next </strong>is where things get interesting.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Second, Unrevealed Class Is Coming</h2>



<p>On top of the Paladin, Blizzard also confirmed a <strong>second new class</strong> that has not been revealed yet.</p>



<p>The official wording is very clear:<br><em>A second, yet-unrevealed class looms on the dark horizon.</em></p>



<p>This is not a placeholder or vague promise. Blizzard repeatedly refers to <strong>two powerful new classes</strong> throughout the expansion reveal and pre-purchase information. That also explains why the expansion includes <strong>two additional character slots</strong> by default.</p>



<p>So yes, this second class is real and planned for launch with Lord of Hatred in April 2026.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Could the Second Class Be?</h2>



<p>So far, Blizzard has shared no details about this second class other than a short teaser image. In that image, the Paladin is clearly visible in the front, while a <strong>shadowy figure seemingly lingers in the background, deliberately obscured.</strong></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-lord-of-hatred-2-classes.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115892" style="border-radius:8px"/></figure>



<p>Given that the Paladin <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-paladin-oaths-breakdown-of-the-new-class-mechanic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">covers the Holy, frontline fantasy</a>, the next class is very likely to go in a different direction. Something darker, more arcane, or more ritual-focused would make sense to balance the available class choices. It also would make sense <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/after-paladin-is-witch-doctor-the-next-diablo-4-class/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">when taking a look at recent years of community requests</a> for classes that explore darker magic or unconventional playstyles.</p>



<p>Blizzard has not confirmed anything yet, but <strong>the fact that this class is still hidden makes it one of the most interesting parts of the expansion reveal.</strong></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Two New Classes, Sooner Than Expected</h2>



<p>What makes this reveal even more surprising is the timing.<strong> Lord of Hatred launches in April 2026, which is only a few months away.</strong> Many players expected one new class at most in this timeframe.</p>



<p>Instead, Blizzard is committing to two distinct additions, with one already playable and the other waiting in the shadows, less than half a year away!</p>



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



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


Diablo 4’s Lord of Hatred Adds a Second New Class After Paladin


<p>Season 11: Divine Intervention, launched overnight right after The Game Awards, and it came with a messy launch for pre-orders of the upcoming <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-next-expansion-announcement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expansion Lord of Hatred</a>!</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/known-issue-psa-missing-vessel-of-hatred-content/236130/1"><span class="white">(</span> Source URL <span class="white">)</span> </a>
        </div>
    </div>
    <hr class="blizzard-line" />
    <h3>Known Issue PSA: Missing Vessel of Hatred Content</h3>
    <div class="blizzard-blue-post-content">
        <p>Hi all,</p>
<p>Wanted to let you all know that we’re aware of an issue with players missing content, such as the Spiritborn class, despite owning this content. Community reports are being investigated, and we are looking to issue an update to resolve this.</p>
<p>While there may be a chance of this getting resolved in the next few hours, there is also a chance this may require a client patch update, which will take additional time. Thank you all for your patience and understanding. We’ll share updates as they roll in.</p>
    </div>
</div>



<p>Players reported multiple pre-order and ownership problems. Some who already owned the expansion or the related bundles could not access expansion content (like the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-reveals-paladin-class-at-the-game-awards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paladin unlocks</a> and <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/spiritborn/builds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiritborn access</a>, which completely disappeared), and others saw ineligibility or purchase errors across platforms. </p>



<div class="blizzard-blue-post">
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            <img decoding="async" class="blizzard-logo" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/static/public/blizzard-icon-small.png" alt="Blizzard Logo" />
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        <div>
            <a class="source-link" target="_blank" href="https://us.forums.blizzard.com/en/d4/t/steam-div-lord-of-hatred-pre-purchase-issues-workaround/236077"><span class="white">(</span> Source URL <span class="white">)</span> </a>
        </div>
    </div>
    <hr class="blizzard-line" />
    <h3>Steam &#8211; DIV Lord of Hatred Pre-Purchase Issues (Workaround)</h3>
    <div class="blizzard-blue-post-content">
        <p>Hey everyone,</p>
<p>We’re currently aware that Lord of Hatred pre-purchase is unavailable in-game when playing on Steam.</p>
<p>However, purchasing Lord of Hatred from the <em><strong>Steam Store</strong></em> rather than in-game, the purchase should work as intended.</p>
<p>Thanks for your patience!</p>
    </div>
</div>



<p>Blizzard posted a set of updates through the night <a href="https://us.forums.blizzard.com/en/d4/t/div-lord-of-hatred-ineligibility-to-purchase-error-notice-issue-resolved/236012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acknowledging the problems</a> and <a href="https://us.forums.blizzard.com/en/d4/t/temporary-disabling-the-age-of-hatred-collection-in-game-on-xbox-playstation/236090" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pushing fixes</a>.</p>



<div class="blizzard-blue-post">
    <div class="d-flex align-items-center">
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            <img decoding="async" class="blizzard-logo" src="https://static.icy-veins.com/wp/static/public/blizzard-icon-small.png" alt="Blizzard Logo" />
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        <div>
            <a class="source-link" target="_blank" href="https://us.forums.blizzard.com/en/d4/t/div-lord-of-hatred-ineligibility-to-purchase-error-notice-issue-resolved/236012/5"><span class="white">(</span> Source URL <span class="white">)</span> </a>
        </div>
    </div>
    <hr class="blizzard-line" />
    <h3>Ineligibility to Purchase Lord of Hatred Error Issue Fixed</h3>
    <div class="blizzard-blue-post-content">
        <p>We have updates rolling out now, resolving most of the issues tied to ineligibility error messages. We’ll continue to monitor threads and posts, and appreciate everyone reaching out.</p>
    </div>
</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Went Wrong</h2>



<p>A few things did not go as planned during the launch of the new season and the Lord of Hatred early access content and pre-orders:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Missing expansion content:</strong> Some players who own <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/vessel-of-hatred-overview/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vessel of Hatred</a> reported missing content (including Spiritborn class access). Blizzard confirmed the issue is under investigation and said a client patch might be required depending on the root cause.</li>



<li><strong>Console bundle bug:</strong> On Xbox and PlayStation the <strong>Age of Hatred Collection</strong> (Base Game + expansions) was available for purchase in-game even to players who already owned Diablo 4. To prevent accidental double purchases, Blizzard temporarily disabled that bundle inside the game shop. The bundle remains purchasable from the platform stores directly.</li>



<li><strong>Steam in-game pre-purchase error:</strong> Steam players reported that the Lord of Hatred pre-purchase option was unavailable inside the game client. Blizzard advised buying directly from the Steam Store as a workaround.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Players Should Try Now</h2>



<p>Blizzard later posted that updates were rolling out to address many of the &#8220;ineligibility&#8221; error messages and that most related issues were being resolved. </p>



<p>The team is continuing to monitor reports and may issue further patches if needed. You should now be able to buy the expansion if you are on the Battle.net client. For all the others, you can try the following workarounds:</p>



<ul>
<li>If your in-game purchase fails on Steam, try buying the expansion directly from the Steam Store.</li>



<li>If the in-game bundle is disabled on console, use the Xbox/PlayStation store pages instead.</li>



<li>If you own the expansion but cannot access content, check the official Blizzard forums for live updates and watch for a client patch notice. So far there is not much you can do for this one. If you wanted to play Spiritborn, you might have to wait a bit.</li>
</ul>



<p>Blizzard says they will continue to post updates as rollouts and fixes happen. We will follow the thread and update if a wider client patch is confirmed.</p>



<p>A rocky launch, but nothing catastrophic so far, most workarounds are simple (store purchases) and Blizzard appears to be pushing fixes fast. If you are locked out of paid content, keep receipts and screenshots, and do not hesitate to contact Blizzard’s customer service if you have any other issue, especially related to paid content.</p>


Diablo 4 Season 11 Launch Hit by Lord of Hatred Pre-Order Issues


<p>Good news for long-standing <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diablo 4</a> fans and all <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/vessel-of-hatred-overview/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vessel of Hatred</a> owners. As a thank you for previously purchasing the Vessel of Hatred expansion, Blizzard is giving all owners a Herald of Hatred Pet Bundle for free!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Free Herald of Hatred Pet Bundle</h2>



<p>That&#8217;s right, as a token of thanks for embracing the Spiritborn and supporting Vessel of Hatred, Blizzard is giving away a Herald of Hatred Pet Bundle for free in-game. </p>



<p>This bundle includes:</p>



<ul>
<li>Herald of Hatred Pet</li>



<li>Wrapped in Guise Mount Trophy</li>



<li>The No Salvation Emblem</li>
</ul>



<p>It&#8217;s worth noting that this isn&#8217;t just any typical cosmetic pet that Diablo 4 has offered before; rather, <strong>this is the first pet with special VFX!</strong> That&#8217;s right, this little embodiment of hate has a reactive effect where it sheds its fur to evoke the Harbinger. <strong>This is the first Pet that reacts to your demon-slaying prowess.</strong> By slaying tons of demons in a short time, your little companion will shed its skin, revealing its true form.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where to Redeem the Pet Bundle</h2>



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<p>If you already own Vessel of Hatred, all you need to do is navigate to the in-game store and go to the cosmetic section. Then, your free bundle should be there waiting for you!</p>


Claim Your Free Herald of Hatred Pet Bundle in Diablo 4!


<p>Despite Blizzard only just announcing the new <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/preorder-lord-of-hatred-to-unlock-paladin-early-in-diablo-4/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diablo 4 Lord of Hatred expansion</a> a few hours ago at The Game Awards, we’re already getting extra details about upcoming gameplay updates, itemization changes, and major system overhauls. Alongside <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">a full skill tree rework</a>, fans can also expect brand-new endgame systems <em>and</em> the long-awaited return of the iconic <strong>Horadric Cube</strong>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Horadric Cube Returns to Diablo 4</h2>



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<p>One of Diablo’s most iconic lore items and gameplay systems is officially back. Among Blizzard’s many teasers for Lord of Hatred is the confirmation that the <strong>Horadric Cube</strong> will make its return to Diablo 4.</p>



<p>While we don’t have every detail just yet, Blizzard has said the cube will let players “explore a fresh take on crafting systems,” hinting at a modernized version of its Diablo 3 functionality.</p>



<p>We also learned that players will be able to equip <strong>set bonuses through a new item called the Talisman</strong>. We still don’t know what slot the Talisman will occupy or how it’ll be earned, but fans are already hoping this means true sets—or even <em>seasonal sets</em>—could make a comeback. And if the Horadric Cube is returning from D3, seeing those sets return isn’t out of the question.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Overhauled Endgame with War Plans</h2>



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<p>Once you finish the Lord of Hatred campaign, Diablo 4’s endgame won’t look the same. Blizzard is introducing a new system called <strong>War Plans</strong>, aimed at giving players more choices, more mastery, and bigger rewards.</p>



<p>War Plans will apply unique modifiers to your favorite endgame activities, letting you push difficulty and earn coveted loot. Even better, each endgame activity will now come with its own <strong>skill tree</strong>, giving players new ways to specialize and push deeper challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Endgame Activities</h2>



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<p>But Blizzard isn’t stopping there. It sounds like even more endgame content is on the way, including a possible new mode called <strong>Echoing Hatred</strong>, where players will “put their demon slaying to the ultimate test against this unyielding threat.”</p>



<p>And then there’s the wildcard no one expected: <strong>fishing</strong>. Yes, Sanctuary’s waterways are officially becoming fishing spots, giving players a completely different kind of endgame grind to dive into.</p>



<p>That’s everything we know so far, but stay tuned—we’ll be covering every new reveal as Blizzard shares more about Lord of Hatred in the coming months.</p>


Diablo 4 Lord of Hatred Brings Back the Horadric Cube


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Major Skill Tree Rework Coming in Diablo 4 Lord of Hatred</h2>



<p>That’s right — while <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/diablo-4-latest-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Season 11</a> details were dropping left and right at The Game Awards, alongside the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-next-expansion-announcement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lord of Hatred trailer</a> and the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-paladin-brings-back-blessed-hammer-and-auras/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brand-new Paladin class</a>, Blizzard quietly slipped in one of the most impactful updates yet. Right next to the long-requested Loot Filter, we’re getting a huge Skill Tree rework for Diablo 4 in Lord of Hatred.</p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Diablo IV | Lord of Hatred | Gameplay Trailer" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gjuC4H-3EGk?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>
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<p>Every class is set to receive <strong>new skill variants</strong>, a <strong>level cap increase</strong>, and what Blizzard is calling a complete rewrite of the entire skill system. All eight classes will see fresh customization paths, new build opportunities, and more variety than we’ve had since launch.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Long Time Coming</h2>



<p>Players have been begging for this for a long time, and up until now, we’ve only seen small adjustments. Vessel of Hatred and past seasons added new skills, a few new passives, and in many cases a single meta-defining Key Passive. But the core Skill Tree? It’s been basically the same since day one.</p>



<p>Blizzard and the community have both hinted for years that the Skill Tree would evolve across expansions and seasons — and honestly, this update was inevitable. Blizzard loves revisiting older systems and modernizing them to match Diablo 4’s evolving standards. We’ve seen it with <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/nightmare-dungeon-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nightmare Dungeons</a>, <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/lair-boss-system-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lair Bosses</a>, and most recently, the massive <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4s-biggest-defense-rework-ever-lands-in-season-11/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rework to defensive stats</a> and <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-season-11-brings-major-monster-reworks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monster scaling</a>.</p>



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<p>Right now, we don’t have a deep dive or even a real preview of what the new Skill Trees actually look like. But one thing’s crystal clear: <strong>these changes will absolutely shape the future of Diablo 4</strong>. Whether they make or break the game will depend entirely on how well Blizzard delivers — so here’s hoping they knock it out of the park.</p>


Massive Skill Tree Rework Coming in Diablo 4 Lord of Hatred


<p>After the big reveal of <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-next-expansion-announcement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diablo 4&#8217;s next expansion</a>, Lord of Hatred, we now also know which new zone players will get to explore. Blizzard <a href="https://blizzard.gamespress.com/en/Diablo-IV-Lord-of-Hatred" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shared early images</a> and a preview document of what is coming, giving us a first idea of the environment, the story themes, and the enemies that live there.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Skovos Zone Overview</h2>



<p>This zone is one of the expansion&#8217;s major content and sets the tone for everything that follows.</p>



<p><strong>Name of the Zone:</strong> Skovos<em><br></em><strong>Location / Lore:</strong> Skovos is one of Sanctuary&#8217;s oldest regions and the ancestral birthplace of the first civilization. It is also the former home of Lilith and Inarius, now ruled by The Oracle and the Amazon Queen. The entire region is deeply connected to ancient lore and the Mephisto story we will uncover in Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred.</p>



<ul>
<li>Volcanic coasts, storm-lashed forests, and waterlogged ruins</li>



<li>Rough, coastal, ancient, overgrown, soaked in old magic and forgotten history</li>



<li>Mysterious, dangerous, with a sense of old power returning to the surface</li>
</ul>



<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-lord-of-hatred-endgame-maps.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115801" style="border-radius:8px"/></figure>



<p>Skovos is much more than just a new map to discover. It carries ties to Lilith and Inarius, Amazon culture, and Mephisto&#8217;s influence. It also blends land and coastal environments in ways no <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/guides/zones-overview/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other Diablo 4 zone</a> has done so far.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Main Story Hints</h2>



<p>Skovos connects directly to the fight against Mephisto.</p>



<ul>
<li>Mephisto&#8217;s influence is spreading again, using the ancient Pools of Creation to push Sanctuary toward a world ruled by hatred. <strong>Skovos is one of the first places hit by this escalation.</strong></li>



<li>The Oracle, the Amazon Queen, and the people who inhabit Skovos. Their culture is directly linked to both ancient rituals and the <strong>earliest days of Sanctuary.</strong></li>



<li><strong>Lilith returns in this story</strong>, forcing a temporary and uneasy alliance as the Wanderer prepares for a final confrontation with Mephisto. Skovos plays an important role in this confrontation and holds secrets that connect to the first civilization itself.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Enemy Types in Diablo 4</h2>



<p>Skovos also brings a full set of new monsters native to the region.</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-lord-of-hatred-paladin-skovos.webp" alt="" class="wp-image 115788" style="border-radius:8px"/></figure>



<p>From the expansion reveal details, we can already see what players will encounter:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Sinister cultists<br></strong>Ancient groups who have fallen under Mephisto&#8217;s shadow.</li>



<li><strong>Oceanic horrors<br></strong>Creatures tied to Skovos&#8217; ocean surroundings, likely inspired by Amazon mythology.</li>



<li><strong>Lingering shadows of Hell<br></strong>Possibly corrupted forms born from Mephisto&#8217;s spreading influence.</li>
</ul>



<p>The new zone already looks like one of the main highlights of the expansion. There is going to be a lot to explore, new enemies to deal with, and a strong connection to Lilith and Inarius, which makes it even more interesting for players who enjoyed Diablo 4&#8217;s launch campaign.</p>



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<p>For more on Lord of Hatred, the <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/diablo-4-reveals-paladin-class-at-the-game-awards/">new Paladin class</a>, and everything else revealed at The Game Awards, head to our <a href="https://www.icy-veins.com/d4/news/">Diablo 4 news hub</a>.</p>


Preorder Lord of Hatred to Unlock Paladin Early in Diablo 4

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