Diablo 4 Reveals Update 1.4.0 Patch Notes

Blizzard has released the patch notes forDiablo 4's 1.4.0 update for the game's Public Test Realm (PTR). The PTR patch, which releases on April 2, aims to test features coming with Diablo 4's Season 4 update that will be released on May 14.

Diablo's PTR program allows PC users to try out new features well before they are released to the general public. To participate in the PTR, users can use the Blizzard.net App and select Diablo 4 from their games list, then select «Public Test Realm» in the drop-down menu that opens after clicking the button above the Play symbol. However, users need to create a fresh character and installDiablo 4's PTR client before proceeding. Game Pass PC users can also join the PTR by accessing the Battle Net client through the Xbox app.

It's a tempting time to join the beta program because Diablo 4's approaching PTR patch is massive. The update is playable from April 2 to April 9 and introduces significant changes to class builds, itemization, Helltide, endgame content, and more. The class build changes affect all classes, and while these changes are too numerous to cover in one article, Blizzard tried to sum them up in a couple of points. First, the changes aim to truly update Diablo 4's gameplay systems instead of simply increasing or reducing character health. Blizzard also aims to make flat-damage Legendaries more viable in Season 4 by scaling them with weapon damage. Furthermore, the developer intends to open up class builds by allowing more connections between different options. For example, using Dust Devils on a Barbarian is much more practical in Season 4.

The PTR patch also includes Helltide Reborn, a revamped version of Diablo 4's Helltides that introduces new features like Threat Tiers and the Accursed Ritual, which is a new encounter that ends in a boss fight with the Blood Maiden. Since PTR players have to start with a new character, they will see slightly reduced difficulty in Helltide Reborn to help them test out the feature