Diablo IV has to change for China, but what does that mean for the game’s look?
Diablo IV is launching in China in a modified version. The changes primarily affect the game’s visual appearance.
Diablo IV Is Coming To China – But Not Without Changes
Diablo IV was approved for the Chinese market in July and is finally set to launch in China on December 12, more than two years after its original release. However, due to the country's strict regulations, particularly concerning depictions of violence and religious symbolism, the game had to undergo several visual changes.
In the Chinese version, for example, there is no visible blood. Instead, a brown, dust-like effect is used. The skull-based design of certain enemies also appears to have been too sensitive for the authorities. As a result, the boss “Wandering Death” was not portrayed as a giant skeleton but was transformed into a creature made of rock and stone.
Even though these changes may seem drastic at first glance, they are unlikely to diminish the enjoyment for many Chinese fans. After all, they’ve been waiting over two years to finally play Diablo IV.
China’s Rules for Video Games
The changes to Diablo IV follow the strict regulations that apply to video games in China. Both political and cultural censorship play a role. Content such as blood, skeletons, ghosts, supernatural elements, or religious symbols is generally not allowed. Excessive violence is also viewed critically.
Developers and publishers therefore make targeted adjustments to their games in order to obtain approval from the National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA). If a game is not approved, it cannot be released.
Many international studios, including Blizzard, alter key design elements, sometimes at the expense of artistic freedom. Diablo IV is not an isolated case.
Between Creativity and Compromise
The release of Diablo IV in China shows how strongly economic interests can influence game design. In order to access this massive market, Blizzard accepts visible alterations, representing a broader trend among many international studios. Creative concessions appear to be the price of market access.
What do you think? Would the visual changes bother you? Let us know in the comments!
