Diablo 4 Director Firm on Mandatory Grouping for Dark Citadel

Diablo 4’s latest expansion, Vessel of Hatred, has largely been well-received by its player base. However, it’s stirred some controversy over the Dark Citadel dungeon. This dungeon marks a significant shift for the Diablo series, standing as the game’s first content to mandate multiplayer, breaking away from the franchise’s long-standing tradition of being fully playable solo, albeit with optional co-op.

Fans who prefer flying solo in their Diablo adventures have expressed their dissatisfaction, feeling cornered into a gaming style they didn’t choose. Yet, Brent Gibson, the Vessel of Hatred’s game director, remains steadfast about the Dark Citadel and its role in adding required multiplayer experiences to Diablo.

In a video interview with Polygon, joined by Diablo’s general manager Rod Fergusson, Gibson firmly stated, “I absolutely am sticking to my guns [on Dark Citadel].” Nonetheless, he emphasized that players aren’t necessarily compelled to participate.

Gibson elaborates, “We’ve designed it so the most efficient path in the game doesn’t necessitate tackling this multiplayer content. It’s exciting to offer such a deep and varied game world, filled with multiple activities and alternative paths within the same gaming loop.”

Adding to the discussion, Fergusson highlighted the extensive options Diablo 4 now provides in its endgame, a development allowing them to explore “new spaces,” as Gibson phrases it. Fergusson noted, “Our endgame has diversified over time. Now, instead of a rigid progression in early seasons, by season 6, the game offers so many choices. Whether it’s heading to Kurast Undercity for runes, exploring the Citadel, venturing into the Pit, tackling a Nightmare Dungeon, facing an Infernal Horde, or slaying the Blood Maiden, the options seem endless.” He also mentioned the new Party Finder feature, simplifying the process of teaming up with others.

Gibson highlighted the importance of acknowledging the growing part of the community that thrives on playing with friends. “It’s crucial to recognize a segment of gamers and developers who find playing any way other than with friends unimaginable,” he explained, noting the trend is only expanding over time.

Despite the critiques surrounding the Dark Citadel’s mandatory multiplayer aspect, Gibson remains unfazed. He affirmed, “The reception to the Dark Citadel has been fantastic. It’s demanding, but for those who dive in, it’s a blast. We’ll continue to monitor feedback, but rest assured, I’m sticking to my guns on it.”