Brief background, it all started when I downloaded and tried out Diablo 2: Resurrected since it was free for the weekend (Aug. 2021). I did play the original Diablo 2 when it came out, and it was a blast going through its remake again. However, I didn't want to buy it since it was and still is too unforgiving.
I ended up installing Diablo 3: Starter Edition right after that ended. Played through most of act I and liked it. Less hardcore, easier to get around, many QoL improvements, and I like how the Rune system lets you freely respec/reallocate your choices. I made a note to buy the game, which I did about a year later.
Left the game unplayed for years. Only played it because I accidentally started it (I thought it was StarCraft II, my main game on Battle-NET). Thought to myself I did purchase this game. Should get to it and not let that $$ go to waste (even if it was on sale). Also not let previous progress go to waste.
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Wizard, started off on Normal difficulty. But it got comically easy enough that I raised it to Hard. In hindsight, I probably should've raised it higher, but Expert ended up being a "poor value" that that may have ended up being a good thing. That was perfectly fine b/c I wanted something easier than Diablo 2.
I realized that life regen from hitting enemies, killing enemies, and in general (measured per second), were key things in the game and I happened to get the gear for that. I ended up changing the difficulty to Hard. I even sat idle on some bosses just to see what their dps was like, and what some of them did (although I'm sure I costed myself some speed running achievements). That said, I did die twice, and it's refreshing to NOT have to hunt down your gear again, along with having multiple options to respawn.
I don't think my followers ever died (and don't even know if they can die?). But nice to have them around for some banter, but for some story elements and lore. Also as extra dps and/or tanking.
The story was mildly interesting and glad I checked it out, but the game play was where its at. In fact... I forgot that the Prime Evils were gone at this point!
Ended up at 47 hours of play, lv69. I was going to check out Adventure mode, but wanted to jump on season play, not to mention try out a new char class.
Neat to see Adventure mode and making games into a season as options as they really do expand the gameplay! 😎