Diablo 2: Resurrected's biggest promise to fans of the original game is that it's going to be as authentic as possible. However, Blizzard is also making some changes to the updated version of the game. While that may make some Diablo 2 fans wary, Blizzard is promising to only make changes where it feels right, and many of these Diablo 2: Resurrected changes are apparently being sourced directly from the fan community.
Speaking with PCGamesN, Diablo 2: Resurrected design lead Rob Gallerani expanded on how the Diablo 2 modding scene has influenced Blizzard's work. To start, Gallerani said features that the hardcore audience approves of, things that have been added through mods, work as a sort of "litmus test" for what Blizzard is adding. These features apparently fit with Blizzard's goal of making Diablo 2 more accessible without changing difficulty.
One example that Gallerani cites is Diablo 2: Resurrected's 10x10 stash, which more than doubles the original game. The base game was limited to just 24 slots, while the Lord of Destruction expansion expanded it to 48. Modders subsequently improved the stash size to 100 slots, not because it made the game easier but because it made the game faster.
Gallerani said the 10x10 grid is already implemented with Diablo 2's vendor grid. This apparently eased Blizzard's worry regarding implementing it to a degree, as an existing asset being used in a new way is more authentic than Blizzard adding an entirely new feature. The existing asset is also part of how modders were able to implement a larger stash with relative ease.
Blizzard is making several more changes than just Diablo 2: Resurrected's stash size. Stashes will be shared across characters so players don't have to mule items between alts. Gold will be able to be auto-acquired rather than requiring a click. All online functionality is being improved, including new user interface elements. Cross-progression will be available day one for PC and console. Also, all of Diablo 2: Resurrected's visuals, audio, and even its cutscenes are being overhauled for the modern release.
One exciting thing about Diablo 2: Resurrected that ties into this subject is it will fully support modding at launch. Blizzard will be able to see what features Diablo 2: Resurrected players are implementing and consider adding them officially. Otherwise, modders can add the kinds of features that Blizzard wasn't comfortable with, so everyone should be happy.
Diablo 2: Resurrected releases 2021 on PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: PCGamesN