Diablo IV’s second major expansion, Lord of Hatred, is bringing Sanctuary to the brink. With Mephisto’s return and the introduction of sweeping system changes, this update isn’t just about new content—it’s redefining how the game plays at every level.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- All confirmed features, including new classes, systems, and endgame activities
- What’s known (and what isn’t) about the narrative and Mephisto’s campaign
- A full overview of the new region: the Skovos Isles
- Detailed breakdowns of the Paladin class and speculation on the unrevealed second class
- Major systemic overhauls to skills, loot, progression, and crafting
- New endgame modes: War Plans and Echoing Hatred
- What to know about editions, pricing, and early access bonuses
- Who this expansion is best suited for—and what returning players need to know
Context and Reveal
Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred was officially unveiled during the 2025 Game Awards as the next chapter in Diablo IV’s ongoing Hatred Saga. Marking a major milestone ahead of the franchise’s 30th anniversary in 2026, the expansion is positioned as more than just a content drop. It’s a systemic reset: reshaping progression, crafting, and endgame design in preparation for the dark horizon facing Sanctuary—and the Prime Evil who waits at its edge.
Lord of Hatred: What’s Confirmed and What’s Still Theory
To maintain clarity for those looking to pre-purchase, it is essential to distinguish between developer-confirmed features and community-driven interpretations.
| Feature | Status | Details |
| New Paladin Class | Confirmed | Playable now via pre-purchase. |
| New Campaign | Confirmed | Set in the Skovos Isles. |
| Major Skill Tree Reworks | Confirmed | A total overhaul of systems for all eight classes. |
| New Loot Filter | Confirmed | Quality-of-life sorting system. |
| Perilous Alliance | Speculative | Potential alliance with Lilith based on teasers. |
| Second Class | Speculative | Identity is “unrevealed” but likely tied to lore. |
Mephisto’s Endgame: The Reckoning and the Pools of Creation
The primary narrative driver for Lord of Hatred is the “Reckoning of Mephisto.” The story follows a foe long believed to be contained, now engaged in a desperate race to reach the Pools of Creation. The relic’s powers of creation draw Mephisto toward a goal that could pull Sanctuary into the abyss. As humanity hangs in the balance within the broader Hatred Saga, this expansion serves as a definitive resolution to plot threads building since the launch of the original game.
The Lilith Factor (Theoretical Analysis)
While not officially confirmed as a permanent ally, theoretical frameworks suggest an unlikely allies scenario between the player and Lilith. This perilous alliance bound by mutual interest involves neutralizing her father before his spreading influence threatens to plunge the world into darkness. Blizzard has not confirmed if Mephisto’s arc concludes with permanent defeat or if this is merely a final stand before his eventual return.
Skovos Isles Explained: Diablo IV’s New Region, Bosses, and Lore
For the first time in the series, players will explore a never before seen region: the Skovos Isles. This former home to Inarius and Lilith serves as the ancestral land of the Ascari and is ruled by an Oracle and an Amazon Queen (Queen Adriana).
- Geography: A landscape featuring ancient pools, coastal ruins, and waterlogged forests.
- Gameplay Identity: Unlike previous zones, Skovos emphasizes verticality and ritual-based elites. As hell’s legions surge through the Isles, players must navigate these lands to stop the world consumed by corruption and the world forever being changed by the Prime Evil’s hatred.
New Diablo IV Classes: Paladin Breakdown + Theories on Second Class
1. The Paladin: Divine Authority
The Paladin class returns to the roster, available immediately for use in Season 11.
- Role: The Paladin wields Holy Light and Divine Authority to occupy a hybrid frontline-support niche. Core skills include Blessed Hammer, Condemn, and various Auras.
- Oath System: Players choose between four sacred paths: Arbiter, Zealot, Judicator, and Juggernaut.
- Customization: The class is expected to feature new class specific variants of skills, positioning it as a cornerstone for coordinated group play.
2. The Second Class (Speculative)
Developer Note: The following class concepts are unconfirmed and based on reveal footage, lore alignment, and historical franchise patterns.
A second new class is confirmed but remains unrevealed. Theoretical analysis suggests the Oracle is the strongest candidate, providing deep customization for players seeking a prophetic combat style. While some hope for an Amazon, the core Dexterity archetype is already partially represented by existing classes like the Rogue and Spiritborn.
Massive Gameplay Changes Coming in Lord of Hatred
Hatred reshapes the core mechanics of the game, moving toward an overhauled endgame and increased horizontal complexity.
- Major Skill Tree Reworks: These trees are being completely redesigned, introducing bonus skill variants alongside new skill variants for all archetypes.
- Expanded Level Caps: A higher ceiling for progression ensures that even old friends returning to the game have a fresh endgame progression path.
- The Horadric Cube & New Talisman: The legendary Cube returns as a fresh take on crafting systems. It allows players to utilize a new talisman to equip set bonuses or supplement gear synergies, adding massive strategic depth.
- Loot Management: The new loot filter provides a systemic solution to inventory management, allowing players to highlight legendary loot by quality and type.
Lord of Hatred Endgame: War Plans, Echoing Hatred, and Fishing
Blizzard is introducing an expansive end game suite to ensure players can define their own endgame progression path.
- War Plans: This system lets players “craft their own playlist” by planning specific encounters through a branching tree, offering high value rewards for those who overcome escalating difficulties.
- Echoing Hatred: Positioned as the ultimate final test, this mode features infinite floors of enemies. It represents the ultimate end game challenge for highly optimized builds.
- Fishing: A new serene activity is being introduced, allowing players to relax and fish in Sanctuary’s waters as a peaceful side activity.
Rathma’s Prophecy, Lilith’s Return, and the Future of Sanctuary
Disclaimer: The following interpretations are community-driven fan theories and have not been confirmed by developer releases.
A burnt parchment found in the ruins contains prophetic last words that expand on Rathma’s vision. With these words echoing true, the prophecy suggests Mephisto will pose as a resurrected prophet. Theoretical interpretations suggest the player may act as a catalyst for Lilith’s return as the remaining three world Prime Evils begin to stir.
Lord of Hatred Editions Compared: Prices, Bonuses, and Early Access
For those looking to commit to the next phase of the saga, Lord of Hatred is offered in several tiers. Note that an internet connection is required for all play, and Cross Play remains supported across all platforms (PC, Xbox One/Series, PS4/PS5, and Steam).
- Standard Edition ($39.99): Includes the expansion, new Paladin class, one extra stash tab, and 2 character slots.
- Deluxe Edition ($59.99): Adds a Premium Battle Pass bundle, the High Heavensguard Paladin cosmetics, the Skartaran Basilisk mount, and the Skorch the Chimera pet.
- Ultimate Edition ($89.99): The most comprehensive tier. This includes the Umbral Knights armor bundle (6 sets), the Steed of the Shining Realm mount, the Tymn back trophy, and the Ascent of the Just town portal skin customizations, plus 3,000 Platinum.
- Age of Hatred Collection ($69.99): For new players, Hatred includes the base game and all expansions.
All editions (via pre-purchase) grant two more character slots and World of Warcraft housing décor items (e.g., Wolphisto rug, demonic chessboard) for use in other Blizzard titles.
Who Should Play Lord of Hatred? Seasonal Model and Returning Player Perks
- Seasonal Interaction: The Paladin is available now for Seasonal and Eternal play. Hatred brings permanent systemic changes, meaning the skill tree reworks and new talisman systems will persist beyond specific seasons.
- Returning Players: This is a fresh take on the game, as Hatred launches alongside all prior major systemic updates.
- Customization Seekers: With countless abilities and skill variants being overhauled, this is intended for players who value deep customization and theory-crafting.
Release Date: While the Paladin is available now, the full Lord of Hatred experience is scheduled for April 28, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred?
Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred is the second full expansion for Blizzard’s ARPG Diablo IV. It continues the game’s main storyline by focusing on Mephisto’s resurgence and introduces a wide range of content updates. These include a brand-new campaign set in the Skovos Isles, new playable classes, deep progression system changes, and major enhancements to endgame activities. The expansion acts as both a narrative continuation and a systemic overhaul of core game mechanics.
When is the Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred release date?
The official release date for Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred is April 28, 2026. However, players who pre-purchase the expansion can immediately access the new Paladin class for use in Season 11. This staged content rollout gives early adopters a head start on builds and progression.
What’s included in the Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred expansion?
Lord of Hatred includes a comprehensive package of content and gameplay updates:
- A brand-new campaign focused on Mephisto’s return
- Two new classes (Paladin confirmed; second class unrevealed)
- The introduction of the Skovos Isles region
- Complete reworks to skill trees for all classes
- A loot filter system for improved inventory management
- The return of the Horadric Cube, with a new talisman mechanic
- Two new endgame modes: War Plans and Echoing Hatred
- A new fishing side activity
- Multiple edition options with cosmetic bonuses and early access perks
Is the Paladin class confirmed for Lord of Hatred?
Yes, the Paladin is officially confirmed and is the first of two new classes arriving in the expansion. The Paladin is available for immediate use upon pre-purchase of Lord of Hatred and serves as a hybrid class capable of frontline damage and support. Core abilities include classic skills like Blessed Hammer, Condemn, and various Auras. Players can further specialize their playstyle by selecting from four unique Oath paths.
Will there be a second new class in Lord of Hatred?
Yes. Blizzard has confirmed that two new classes will be introduced in the Lord of Hatred expansion. While the Paladin is fully revealed, the second class remains unrevealed as of now. Community theories based on lore and teaser footage suggest the Oracle—a prophecy-themed spellcaster—as the most likely candidate. Some fans have speculated the return of the Amazon, but current class archetypes already cover most Dexterity playstyles.
Where is the Lord of Hatred campaign set?
The campaign for Lord of Hatred takes place in the Skovos Isles, a lush and dangerous archipelago never before seen in the franchise. This region is tied to the ancient history of Inarius, Lilith, and the Ascari people. Skovos is visually distinct, featuring vertical terrain, coastal ruins, ancient pools, and ritual-heavy enemy encounters. It’s ruled by Queen Adriana and an Oracle, tying directly into both narrative and potential class theories.
What are War Plans in Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred?
War Plans are a new high-end system that allows players to craft and customize their own endgame experiences. Through a branching tree of encounters, players can select specific combat challenges that escalate in difficulty. This system lets players control their risk-reward path and is designed to offer tailored loot, efficient XP gains, and a more strategic approach to endgame grinding.
What is Echoing Hatred mode in Diablo 4?
Echoing Hatred is a new infinite dungeon-style mode introduced in the Lord of Hatred expansion. Designed as the pinnacle challenge of the endgame, this activity features a seemingly endless sequence of increasingly difficult enemy floors. Players must optimize builds, rotations, and survivability to survive. Rewards scale with depth, and leaderboard potential is likely to follow in future seasonal updates.
Does Lord of Hatred change the skill tree system?
Absolutely. One of the core features of the expansion is a complete rework of the skill trees for all eight classes. These updates include the introduction of bonus skill variants, new passives, additional tiers, and better horizontal progression options. The goal is to offer deeper build diversity and support both casual experimentation and hardcore theorycrafting.
What is the Horadric Cube and talisman system in Lord of Hatred?
The Horadric Cube returns in Lord of Hatred with a new function: synergizing with talismans. These talismans can be socketed with set bonuses or powerful modifiers, dramatically increasing build potential. Players can use the Cube to break down and reforge items, making it a core part of crafting and loot optimization in the endgame.
Will Lord of Hatred introduce fishing to Diablo 4?
Yes. For the first time in franchise history, fishing is being added to Diablo. It’s a non-combat activity that allows players to relax in various zones, including the Skovos Isles. Fishing includes its own progression loop and can yield rare materials or cosmetics. It’s designed as a “respite” feature for players looking for downtime between demon-slaying.
Are there new customization options in Lord of Hatred?
Yes. In addition to Paladin Oaths and revamped skill trees, players will have access to new armor sets, mounts, pets, and cosmetic skill effects—depending on the edition purchased. Deluxe and Ultimate editions include exclusive cosmetics, like the High Heavensguard set and the Umbral Knights bundle, allowing players to visually express their builds more than ever before.
How much does the Lord of Hatred expansion cost?
Pricing varies depending on the edition:
- Standard Edition ($39.99): Expansion content, Paladin, stash tab, 2 character slots
- Deluxe Edition ($59.99): Adds battle pass, Paladin skin, mount, and pet
- Ultimate Edition ($89.99): Adds armor bundles, back trophy, town portal skin, and 3,000 Platinum
- Age of Hatred Collection ($69.99): Includes base game + expansions for new players
Do I need the base game to play Lord of Hatred?
Yes. Lord of Hatred is an expansion, not a standalone release. Players must own the base Diablo IV game to access it. However, the Age of Hatred Collection offers a bundle that includes the base game and all expansions, making it ideal for newcomers.
Is cross-play supported in Lord of Hatred?
Yes. Full cross-play and cross-progression are supported across PC, Xbox One and Series, PS4, PS5, and Steam. Players can team up with friends regardless of platform, and progress is synced across accounts if logged in with the same Battle.net ID.
