Is Diablo 4 an MMORPG? Answered

Diablo has been a staple for computer gaming for over 20 years now. With its own evolution, online and computer gaming has evolved as well. However, some still may be confused about just exactly what kind of game Diablo IV is. Being such an important computer game as well as finally coming to consoles, Diablo IV looks poised to be a multiplayer online experience. But is it? Is Diablo 4 an MMORPG?

(Related: How to Play the Diablo IV Open Beta-Early Access )

Is Diablo 4 an MMORPG?

Let’s first talk about what an MMORPG is. MMO means Massive Multiplayer Online game. RPG of course means Role-Playing Game. An MMORPG is a game like World of Warcraft or Final Fantasy XIV where you interact constantly and play the RPG style games online with many other gamers simultaneously. Missions and events are done usually with parts and groups depending on the number of people allowed at a time.

Diablo is more of a solo Action RPG. You will be playing most of the time by yourself. So no, Diablo IV is not an MMO, just an RPG. Diablo IV game director Luis Barriga has been asked several times to clarify what makes Diablo IV not an MMO.

“Dungeons and key story moments are always private – just the player and their party. Once story moments are complete and towns are turned into social hubs, you’d run into a few people in town. While on the road, you’d sometimes run into a player here and there,” 

Luis Barriga

Barriga would also clarify that the closest experience to an MMO would be during large world events but only in terms of seeing other players. Your victory, experience, as well as rewards are not dependent on the other players as they would be in an MMO. So while you will sometimes see evidence that many others are playing Diablo IV the same as you, your interactions and requirement to play with other gamers is slim to virtually unnecessary.

For more on Diablo IV please read Differences Between Diablo 4 Early Access and Open Beta Coming Up in March. Be sure to subscribe to our Facebook Page for more updates, news, info, and guides on your favorite video games.