The release of Diablo 5 brings many surprises to fans of the series, as the game will significantly deviate from the conventional standards of the genre. In a special panel at BlizzCon 2026, game director Joe Sheley, producer Matt Zitterman and narrative director Jennifer Hepler, a BioWare veteran who dragon age) talks about a key innovation – the game will completely eliminate traditional cities and safe zones.
Instead of relying on a fixed shelter, players will rely on a mobile caravan of loyal companions who surround the hero and serve as a protective barrier against the monsters in the shelter. According to Hepler, this system brings elements of classic party RPGs, such as baldur’s gate and dragon age: Companions not only protect you on the road, but also have unique personalities that allow you to interact with them on the road in place of your usual campsite.
