"Unlocking Diablo 4's Secrets: Seasons, Battle Pass, and Malignant Hearts"
In an interview with Game Director Joe Shely and franchise GM Rod Fergusson, details about the upcoming Season of the Malignant in Diablo 4 were revealed. The first season will be smaller in size compared to future seasons, as it was developed simultaneously with the game's launch. The season will feature a questline and a central heart-farming mechanic, with no timegated missions or story beats. All content in Diablo 4 seasons is free, except for the Premium Battle Pass, which offers cosmetics. Players can earn Platinum, the game's premium currency, through the battle pass. The season will introduce class-specific heart abilities and new Legendary Aspects and Uniques. There will be a new Nightmare Dungeon rotation and nerfs to balance the game. Additionally, a new Uber-Unique with adjusted drop rates will be introduced. Uniques are not meant to be superior to Legendaries, but rather complement specific builds. The campaign is a requirement to play the season, but players can join a friend who has completed it.