It turns out Diablo III is one of those insufferable types who insists everybody celebrate their “birthday week”. But it at least had the decency to put a buff behind the bar – double Rift Fragments for all, and an 100% boost to our chance of finding Legendary items.
Once the knees-up began last Thursday, however, it became clear there was a problem – players much preferred this version of the game, with its unending stream of lovely new gear. And so Blizzard have decided to keep it that way; making Nick a very happy man if his Reaper of Souls review is anything to go by.
The Diablo III anniversary celebration due to end at 5am PDT today will instead live on forever in its legendary item buff.
“I come bearing exciting news,” wrote game designer Travis Day. “Due to the overwhelming popularity of our Anniversary buff we have decided to keep the increased Legendary drop rate once the Anniversary celebration ends.
“Once the buff is disabled tomorrow morning, you will find that the new base line drop rates for Legendary items will be the same as those you have all enjoyed for the last week.”
It’s quite unlike Blizzard to rebalance the game on a whim, after two years of tweaking and remoulding Diablo III into the sequel it was supposed to be. Perhaps they’re just relieved to hear players happy.
Our Nick’s going to be chuffed to bits. Are you?