The highly anticipated arrival of Diablo 4 on Game Pass, slated for 28th March 2024, comes with an additional caveat for PC players. In order to access the latest instalment of the popular hack-and-slash franchise on their computers, gamers will need to install Battle.net alongside their Game Pass subscription.
This requirement adds a layer of complexity for PC enthusiasts eager to delve into the dark world of Sanctuary. Despite the slight inconvenience, the prospect of accessing Blizzard Entertainment’s acclaimed title through Game Pass has been a beacon of excitement since Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard earlier last year.
Diablo 4, initially launched in June 2023, has garnered mixed reviews for its latest season, known as Season of the Construct. However, its captivating storyline and immersive gameplay have remained consistent sources of praise since its inception. The game boasts diverse character classes, each offering unique gameplay experiences and visually stunning aesthetics, ensuring broad appeal among gamers.
While Xbox players can seamlessly access Diablo 4 from their library, PC users will need to navigate the additional step of installing Battle.net. This platform serves as Blizzard’s central hub, connecting players to a myriad of titles across the Blizzard universe. Though not as streamlined as its Xbox counterpart, PC players remain hopeful for smoother integration in future releases.
To guide players through the process, here are the steps to access Diablo 4 through Game Pass on PC:
- Access Xbox Application: Launch the Xbox application on your PC and log in using the credentials associated with your active Game Pass subscription.
- Navigate to Diablo 4: Locate Diablo 4 within the Xbox application and initiate the installation process.
- Install Battle.net: When prompted, install Battle.net, Blizzard’s proprietary launcher, and social platform. Connect your Xbox account with a Battle.net account by either logging in with existing credentials or creating a new profile.
- Complete Installation: With your Battle.net account linked, complete the installation of Diablo 4 and commence your demon-slaying adventure on PC.
Despite the additional requirement, PC players should note that the Game Pass version of Diablo 4 will not feature Xbox achievements. Instead, players will earn achievements through Battle.net, thus diverging slightly from the Xbox experience.
Looking ahead, the success of Diablo 4’s forthcoming expansion pack, “Vessel of Hatred,” is crucial. Set to transport players to the dense jungles of Kurast, this expansion promises a new character class and enhancements to existing features, including the introduction of a follower system. Anticipated for release by the end of 2024, “Vessel of Hatred” is likely to require a separate purchase for Game Pass subscribers.
As Diablo 4 continues to evolve, the integration of Game Pass offers a tantalising opportunity for players to immerse themselves in the gripping world of Sanctuary. While hurdles such as the Battle.net requirement exist, the allure of demon-slaying adventures remains irresistible for fans of the franchise.
