The hellfires of Diablo 4 continue to burn strong following the game’s launch, and it appears that there’s a good reason why the vast majority seem bewitched by the latest installment in the long-running action RPG franchise.
According to Blizzard GM, Rod Fergusson, one class stands above the rest: the Sorcerer.
The classic magic-wielding class, which has appeared in every installment since the original 1996 title, is taking the spotlight once again as the most popular class in Diablo 4 barely a week into its full release.
Pssst!
I didn't ask for permission to share this but I thought you might be interested to know that right now, the number 1 most played class in #DiabloIV is the Sorcerer/Sorceress!
But you didn't hear it from me. In case someone from PR or Marketing asks… pic.twitter.com/aOXdt0qqgp
— Rod Fergusson (@RodFergusson) June 9, 2023
Sorcerers in Diablo 4 tap into the elemental powers, casting visually impressive spells of fire, frost, and lightning, creating a vibrant spectacle on screen. With one of the most creative skill trees in the game, Sorcerers can paint the screen spectacular displays of magic with a dash of demonic blood. Additionally, the introduction of the Enchantment Slot system adds a layer of tactical gameplay and lets players equip passive benefits for using spells.
Perhaps it’s the nostalgic and familiar feeling of playing one of the game’s oldest classes or the irresistible appeal of hurling powerful spells into the throngs of demonic adversaries. Whatever the reason is, players are flocking to the Sorcerer in droves.
Interestingly, the sorcerer’s success might be viewed as something of a surprise. In the Diablo 4 open beta earlier this year, Sorcerers were neck and neck with Necromancers as the most played class. However, the subsequent nerfs to the undead minions seem to have extinguished much of the initial excitement surrounding this class.
While the Sorcerer enjoys the limelight, it’s not without its drawbacks. They may be pure damage machines, ideal for solo-play and leveling, but when it comes to Diablo 4’s most brutal dungeons and open-world activities, they struggle. Diablo 4’s endgame grind favors classes like Barbarians and Druids, who evolve into devastating powerhouses. In contrast, a Sorcerer falls off in utility and power as they near the level 100 cap. This likely explains why the first class to reach level 100 in Hardcore Mode was a Barbarian.
Regardless, this hasn’t dampened the allure of the Sorcerer class. With their flashy spells and big damage output, it’s clear why they are dominating the popularity charts. There’s something innately satisfying about commanding the elements, and Sorcerers deliver this experience in spades.
But what about the other classes? Necromancers, despite their nerfs, might still be the second most popular class based on general chatter. Druids, often overlooked due to their complexity and initial weak power level in Betas, have proven to be incredibly strong in the final version of the game. Barbarians, while not as flashy as Sorcerers, provide a tried-and-true melee experience and are likely more popular than the elusive Rogue class.
It’s worth noting that Diablo 4’s success isn’t solely due to its compelling class choices. Diablo 4 has already been declared the fastest-selling Blizzard game ever and continues to break its concurrent player count records. In a world where gaming trends shift rapidly, Diablo 4 appears to have struck gold.
Although it probably didn’t hurt that Blizzard pulled off one of the most ingenious marketing stunts in recent memory and benefitted from an untimely disaster in another instance.
Ultimately, Diablo 4 is still a new frontier. Player habits may change, class popularity may shift, and the current king of the hill, the Sorcerer, might find itself dethroned. Until then, Sorcerers will continue to reign supreme, enchanting allies and devastating foes in their wake.
