Key Points:
- Diablo 4 breaks launch sales records with over 93 million hours of gameplay in first 4 days.
- Massive early success makes it the fastest-selling Blizzard game ever
- Drove 50% year-over-year increase in Activision Blizzard Q2 net bookings to $2.46 billion
- Blizzard achieves first ever $1 billion bookings quarter, sells 10+ million Diablo 4 units in June
- Diablo 4 provides immersive cross-platform experience on major consoles & PC
- Delivers ambitious new chapter in Diablo saga with deep lore and customization
- Vast open world with 120+ dungeons, tons of side quests and activities
- Robust endgame and live service planned with new Seasons and expansions
- Available in three digital editions and limited collector’s box
- Early runaway success positions Blizzard and Activision for further growth
IRVINE, Calif.—July 24, 2023—Blizzard Entertainment‘s highly anticipated action RPG Diablo 4 has made a blistering debut, breaking launch sales records to become the fastest-selling game in the company’s history. Within just four days of early access on June 1, the dark fantasy epic had already accrued over 93 million hours of gameplay from players across the globe—the equivalent of over 10,000 years of continuous playtime if starting from the dawn of civilization.
Driving Q2 Earnings with Diablo IV
The phenomenal reception of Diablo 4 has been a key driver of Activision Blizzard’s strong financial performance in Q2 2023. On the back of core franchise launches like Diablo, the company reported a 50% year-over-year increase in net bookings to $2.46 billion for the quarter. Significantly, Blizzard also achieved its first ever $1 billion bookings quarter, selling over 10 million units of Diablo 4 in June alone.
However, the Q2 report revealed a very different story for Overwatch 2, with underwhelming engagement metrics presenting a contrast to the runaway success of Diablo 4. While one tentpole franchise accelerates, the other appears stalled—a situation which will require deft management of Blizzard’s IP portfolio going forward.
Overall, the remarkable early popularity of Diablo 4 bodes well for both Blizzard and Activision Blizzard at large. But sustaining momentum across franchises remains imperative as the company charts its future course.
Diablo 4 Brings Sanctuary to Life Across Platforms
The latest entry in Blizzard’s acclaimed Diablo franchise, Diablo 4 offers a riveting cross-platform experience available on Windows PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, and PlayStation 4. The game provides co-op support for up to four players together online, and two-player local co-op on consoles.
“Delivering this ambitious new chapter of Diablo was a monumental achievement made possible by the tireless work of our development team over many years. Our goal was to craft the most immersive Diablo narrative yet, and seeing it so eagerly embraced is truly rewarding. We started this journey back in 2019 with the game’s announcement, and the passionate support of our global community of players was instrumental in bringing our dark vision of Sanctuary to life. Hail Lilith, Blessed Mother.”
In a statement, Rod Fergusson, General Manager of Diablo, shared his excitement at the record-breaking launch:
Set 50 years after Diablo III: Reaper of Souls, Diablo 4 chronicles the resurgence of Lilith, the Daughter of Hatred, in the mortal realm of Sanctuary. Players must battle hordes of demonic foes to restore order to a world overrun by monsters. With deep customization through skill trees and abilities, along with a richly detailed world filled with diverse environments and formidable enemies, Diablo 4 offers engaging adventures for all.
Diablo 4 Offers Vast Exploration and Endless Adventures
Diablo 4 reveals an expansive open world brimming with content and secrets. Players can explore over 120 hand-crafted dungeons and take on numerous side quests across the sprawling overworld. The journey is nonlinear – heroes can relentlessly hunt Lilith or uncover hidden corners while honing skills.
The adventure continues well beyond the main campaign. At endgame, an updated Paragon Board enables further character growth and customization for tackling challenging activities. New Seasons and expansions will continually introduce fresh gameplay features, characters, challenges, and legendary loot rewards.
Diablo 4 is digitally available in three editions – Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate – each with exclusive in-game bonuses. A limited Collector’s Box also offers premium collectibles like a Candle of Creation, cloth map of Sanctuary, and more.
“Our mission at Blizzard has always been delivering legendary gaming experiences, and Diablo 4 encapsulates that vision. With its deep storytelling, customizable gameplay, and expansive world full of choices, this game exemplifies our team’s abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or first-time visitor, we invite you to immerse yourself in the global phenomenon that is Diablo 4.”
Blizzard President Mike Ybarra said:
The overwhelming success of Diablo 4 demonstrates Blizzard’s ability to deliver an engaging and immersive gaming experience, contributing to the company’s strong financial performance for Q2 2023. The company is poised to continue its growth trajectory, backed by its strong portfolio of popular titles. However, it remains to be seen how they will address the challenges faced by Overwatch 2, as the company strives to sustain the momentum built by Diablo 4.
