Blizzard's second major expansion for Diablo 4 is shaping up to be a transformative update, especially when it comes to endgame progression, crafting systems, and build customization. While we still don't know every detail, the information revealed so far suggests that this expansion could dramatically change how players create and optimize their builds.

Here's everything we know - and what it could mean for the future of the game.

A Major Skill Tree Rework Is Coming

The biggest confirmed overhaul in the expansion is the complete rework of the skill tree system. According to Blizzard, players can expect:

·Major skill tree redesigns

·New skill variants for every class

·Level cap increases

·Expanded customization options

The focus of the new skill trees appears to center on deep customization of individual skills.

12 Skill Ranks Per Ability

One of the most impactful changes is that non-ultimate skills will now feature up to 12 ranks. With a higher level cap providing more skill points, players will have more freedom to heavily invest in specific abilities.

The big question is: will higher ranks unlock additional effects?

Currently, Ultimate skills in Diablo 4 unlock bonus effects when fully ranked. For example, Petrify can reset cooldowns when maxed. If this philosophy expands to all skills, we could see:

·New effects at Rank 6 and Rank 12

·Additional gameplay-changing modifiers

·Meaningful reasons to fully invest in a core skill

If implemented well, this system alone could massively increase build diversity.

Skill Variants: Diablo 2 Rune Energy Returns

Perhaps the most exciting feature is the introduction of skill variants.

Instead of the current structure - one mandatory upgrade followed by a choice between two modifiers - the new skill tree includes:

·Two side paths with circular upgrades (likely smaller bonuses)

·A central path with 3-4 boxed "Skill Variant" options. These variants appear to dramatically alter how abilities function.

Element Swaps and Gameplay Changes

In early previews, we saw:

·Ball Lightning transformed into a ground-based fire skill

·Frost Hydra variants

·Lightning-based Incinerate

·Elemental swaps across multiple skills

This system feels reminiscent of Diablo 2's rune system, where a single rune could completely redefine how a skill functioned - changing its element, damage type, or behavior.

If every skill in the game gains multiple meaningful variants, we could see:

·Elementally flexible builds

·Hybrid archetypes

·Entirely new playstyles within existing classes

And according to Blizzard's description, even more variants unlock through progression systems like "Lord of Hatred."

This alone could be the largest build diversity expansion Diablo 4 has ever seen.

Loot Filter: Quality of Life or Meta Shift?

The expansion will also introduce a long-requested loot filter system. While details remain unclear, the implementation could significantly impact endgame efficiency.

The big question:

Will filtered items simply disappear, or will they auto-salvage?

Ideally, Blizzard enhances lower-tier item relevance rather than simply hiding them. A well-balanced loot filter should:

·Help players target desired affixes

·Reduce visual clutter

·Maintain meaningful loot discovery

Done right, it improves quality of life without disrupting progression balance.

The Return of the Horadric Cube

One of the most nostalgic reveals is the return of the Horadric Cube - Instead of a portable inventory item, the Cube appears to be a town-based crafting station housing multiple crafting systems.

In preview footage, we saw:

·A dagger infused with runes

·Transformation into a fiery variant

·Indications of rune-based crafting

This suggests several possibilities:

·Rune infusion for item modification

·Resource conversion crafting

·Item transformation systems

·Endgame gear modification

Blizzard described the Cube as containing multiple crafting systems, implying it may serve as a central hub for advanced crafting.

The New Talisman System and Set Bonuses

Perhaps the most intriguing new addition is the Talisman system, which uniquely introduces set bonuses.

Rather than traditional gear-based set items, the Talisman appears to:

·Feature six outer slots

·Allow insertion of new farmable items (possibly runes or charms)

·Channel effects into a central bonus

This approach modernizes Diablo 2's charm system while avoiding inventory clutter.

What We've Seen So Far

In gameplay footage:

·Druid-specific Talisman items displayed class symbols

·A Werebear used lightning skills during Grizzly Rage

·Trample gained entirely new Earth-based effects

This indicates that Talismans may:

·Enable previously impossible skill combinations

·Add new animations and mechanics

·Introduce gameplay-focused set effects rather than stat boosts

If Talismans come in multiple rarities - including Legendary or Mythic tiers - farming them could become a central endgame loop. Players optimizing builds may focus heavily on acquiring rare inserts, upgrading Diablo 4 items, or even choosing to buy Diablo IV gold to accelerate crafting progression.

Endgame Progression Is Evolving

Importantly, the expansion does not remove current systems. Players will still have:

·Enchanting

·Aspect imprinting

·Tempering

·Masterworking

·Paragon boards

However, with skill tree overhauls, Horadric Cube crafting, Talismans, and loot filtering layered on top, the synergy between systems will deepen.

Changing a skill's element may now require:

·Different Aspects

·New Unique Diablo 4 items

·Alternative Paragon routes

·Updated Talisman combinations

This interconnected design could make building crafting more dynamic than ever before.

Final Thoughts: A New Era of Build Crafting

While many specifics remain unknown, one thing is clear: this expansion is not just adding content - it's redefining how builds are created and customized in Diablo 4.