The first expansion for Diablo III, Reaper of Souls, isn't too far off, and to make sure copies go flying off the shelves, Blizzard has revealed a Collector's Edition, and what it brings to the table. In addition to the actual expansion, it also includes the following tangible goodies:
- a behind the scenes DVD and Blu-Ray two-disc set
- soundtrack
- artbook
- mouse pad.
As for digital content, you'll get a spectral hound minion, aesthetic artifacts, World of Warcraft treasure goblin pet, and some portraits related to StarCraft II. Fans may remember hearing about a Deluxe Edition of the expansion offering the same digital content, but at a lower price of $59.99. That will be available in March. By comparison, the Collector's Edition will cost fans $79.99, and will only be available at select retailers.
During the press conference Blizzard gave at this past summer's Gamescom, Reaper of Souls was revealed as a brand new and first ever expansion for Diablo III. The add-on pack will offer new story content to the game, an additional character class - the Crusader - and a host of tweaks and enhancements.
Reaper of Souls has been described by Blizzard as a dark and terrifying new chapter in Diablo's story that takes place "from the sprawling streets of Westmarch to the ancient walls of the Pandemonium Fortress," and works as a fifth act for Diablo III:
Malthael, the "fallen Archangel of Wisdom," has returned, now with the Black Soulstone, containing the essence of the Prime Evil, in his possession. It now falls to the players to track down and stop Malthael.
Joining Diablo III's classes of Barbarian, Witch Doctor, Wizard, Monk, and Demon Hunter is a new class, the Crusader, one of the "warriors of righteousness who have been hardened through relentless, brutal combat with the foul evils plaguing eastern Sanctuary. In addition to wearing immensely heavy armor and wielding a wide range of cruel and punishing weapons, this new playable class in Reaper of Souls uses battle magic to strengthen allies and weaken foes. A natural walking tank, the Crusader adds power and versatility to any party of adventurers."
"From the beginning, Diablo has always been about the struggle between good and evil, and Reaper of Souls explores the darker notes of that conflict," said Mike Morhaime, CEO and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment. "This expansion also represents a big milestone in the ongoing evolution of Diablo III, with key enhancements to the core gameplay, along with a new act to experience, a powerful new character class, tons of new loot, and even more end-game options. We think players will love playing Reaper of Souls, and we can't wait to get it into their hands."
Additionally, the expansion is also meant to highlight the key features of the Diablo franchise, with more emphasis on randomized environments to explore. The enhanced Loot experience allows players to further customize Legendary items, and additional item-crafting options will be available from both the Blacksmith and Jeweler.
An internal testing version of the expansion leaked over the fall, revealing a wealth of information about Reaper of Souls. A closed beta is currently live.
Though the expansion for the game will be releasing separately for PC and Mac, its content and additions will arrive alongside the original game on the PS4 with the upcoming Diablo 3: Ultimate Evil Edition.
