Diablo 4 fans speculate: Could the Paladin appear as a surprise Shadow Drop right after the Game Awards?
The rumor mill around Diablo 4 is buzzing: The Game Awards take place on December 12, 2025, and the community is almost certain that Blizzard has a major announcement planned. While most fans are hoping for a new expansion, evidence is mounting that a brand-new playable class – the Paladin – could be revealed as a surprise Shadow Drop.
New Season Fuels Paladin Rumors
Speculation began when players spotted a previously unknown weapon type in the Battle Pass of Diablo 4’s new season, Divine Intervention: the flail. Historically, this weapon has been closely associated with Paladins, further fueling hopes for the return of the beloved class. In addition, the word “Paladin” appeared in an internal build of Diablo 4 several months ago. Interestingly, the new season launches immediately after the Game Awards a “coincidence” that the lead class designer at Blizzard himself addressed on Twitter.
The season’s name, Divine Intervention, also sparks speculation. Many players see it as a clear hint at a holy class that could protect Sanctuary. Industry insider Jez Corden recently confirmed that Blizzard will announce “more than just an expansion” at the Game Awards. A brand-new playable class would definitely count as part of that.
Diablo 4: Fans Hope For The Paladin
But why have fans been longing for the Paladin for years? The answer lies in the class’s long-standing tradition: Already in Diablo 2, the Paladin was a well-balanced, versatile class. Equipped with heavy armor, a sword, and a shield, he could serve both as a tank and support allies with powerful auras. Particularly iconic were builds featuring spinning Holy Hammers, capable of decimating entire hordes of enemies.
In Diablo 2: Resurrected, however, the Paladin failed to reach the same popularity polls show he received only 15% of votes, while the Necromancer topped the charts. With Diablo 3 and the introduction of the Crusader as an evolution of the Paladin, the focus shifted more toward raw strength and holy magic as an offensive one-man army. Still, the archetype of the Paladin as a human warrior with sword and shield remains one of the community’s most beloved fantasies.
Whether Blizzard will release Paladins or a similar holy class immediately after the Game Awards remains to be seen. However, the clues are promising: a previously unknown flail, the name of the new season, and hints from developers and insiders have fans optimistic. For both veterans and newcomers, a Paladin Shadow Drop could be a true highlight to end the year.