The Diablo-Like Revolution: How Blizzard’s Legacy is Shaping the Future of Action RPGs
The impact of Diablo on the Western RPG landscape is undeniable. Its influence is so profound that a modern subgenre – the “Diablo-like” – has emerged. Following the success of Diablo 4, which has sold over 10 million copies since 2023, numerous studios are attempting to replicate its formula, offering compelling alternatives to Blizzard’s king of the genre.
The Current Landscape: Notable Contenders
Path of Exile 2, currently in early access from Grinding Gear Games, is a prominent example, mirroring Diablo IV’s gameplay. Other RPGs drawing inspiration from the Diablo formula include Grim Dawn, Dragonkin: The Banished, No Rest for the Wicked, Philna Fantasy, Titan Quest II and Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel. These titles demonstrate a clear demand for the immersive, loot-driven experience that Diablo pioneered.
Emerging Trends: What’s on the Horizon?
Cyberpunk Meets Diablo: Carbon
Hardwired Studios is developing Carbon, an action RPG for PC that blends the Diablo formula with shooter mechanics and a cyberpunk setting. A key feature is the choice between technological and biotechnological implants, fundamentally altering character builds. The game boasts a skill tree with up to 100 options and 18 specializations, and is currently available as a demo on Steam.
Steampunk Loot: Crystalfall
CRG Studio’s Crystalfall offers a free-to-play steampunk alternative, launching soon on Steam and Epic Games Store. The core mechanic revolves around collecting mysterious crystals that grant unique abilities. It combines loot, boss battles, customizable classes, and a complex skill tree.
Roguelite Persistence: Cult of Shadows
Cult of Shadows, from Many sp. Z o.o., introduces a roguelite element to the formula. Players face endless waves of cultists and abominations, returning stronger with each death, unlocking new spells, skills, and attributes. Procedurally generated dungeons ensure replayability. A demo is available on Steam.
World-Building and Combat Freedom: Darkhaven
Developed by some of the original creators of Diablo and Diablo II, Darkhaven distinguishes itself with unique mechanics. Players can modify maps, constructing walls and bases, and leverage the environment during combat. A free demo will be available on Steam.
Blending RPG and Life Sim: Emberville
Cygnus Cross’s Emberville draws inspiration from Stardew Valley, combining RPG elements with life simulation. Players explore a subterranean world, restore homes, and engage in real-time combat. It’s slated for an early access release.
Mythological Action: Gods, Death & Reapers
WOLCEN Studio’s Gods, Death & Reapers features a gothic aesthetic and an immersive story set across various mythologies. The game incorporates extraction mechanics, similar to Arc Raiders, and offers both solo and cooperative online play. Sign-ups for future testing are open on Steam.
Mutant Mayhem: Greyskin
Green Goo Games’ Greyskin presents a unique premise: a squad of mutant rats in a futuristic world. The game blends RPG and shooter elements, with a cel-shaded art style. Players can improve their class and mutate into more powerful creatures. A free demo is available on Steam.
Dark Souls Inspired: Rekesh Gaal
Mystic Blade’s Rekesh Gaal evokes the challenging gameplay of Dark Souls within a Diablo-like framework. Players create custom classes from over 210 skills across 30 branches, facing difficult bosses and exploring challenging dungeons. A demo is available on Steam.
Shooter-Looter Hybrid: R.I.P. – Reincarnation Insurance Program
WarmCore Studio’s R.I.P. – Reincarnation Insurance Program is currently in early access on Steam, combining action RPG elements with shooter mechanics and a touch of Vampire Survivors-style progression. Players take on the role of agents eliminating zombies with advanced technology.
The Future of the Genre
Beyond these titles, Fractured Worlds from Laser Guided Games (launching in spring-summer) and Legends of Azamar from Gronkins are also on the horizon. The continued innovation within the “Diablo-like” space suggests a vibrant future for the action RPG genre. Developers are experimenting with diverse settings, unique mechanics, and hybrid gameplay loops, demonstrating a willingness to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
FAQ
Q: What defines a “Diablo-like” game?
A: Typically, these games feature an isometric perspective, real-time combat, character customization, loot collection, and a focus on dungeon crawling.
Q: Are any of these games free-to-play?
A: Yes, Crystalfall is a free-to-play title.
Q: Where can I find demos for these games?
A: Several games, including Carbon, Cult of Shadows, Darkhaven, Greyskin, and Rekesh Gaal, offer demos on Steam.
Q: Will Diablo 4 receive further updates?
A: Yes, Diablo 4 is scheduled to receive the Lord of Hatred expansion on April 28th, along with Season 12 updates.
Q: What makes these games different from Diablo?
A: Many incorporate unique mechanics like world-building (Darkhaven), life simulation elements (Emberville), roguelite progression (Cult of Shadows), or distinct settings like cyberpunk (Carbon) and steampunk (Crystalfall).
Don’t forget to check out the most decisive RPG games that will define 2026 for more exciting titles!
What “Diablo-like” game are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
