Diablo: Immortal Adds a Way to Earn Its End-Game Content Instead of Just Buying It [IGN]

A blog post on Blizzard’s website announced its plans to introduce a new currency called Telluric Pearls which can be used to craft five star Legendary Gems, items that were previously locked behind what are essentially loot box dungeons.

It’s not totally clear how easy to get Telluric Pearls will be, but Blizzard did announce two ways to get them not linked to paying money. Players can trade Hilts with Lieutenant Fizriah, the Hilt Vendor in Westmarch, or earn them as rewards in Diablo: Immortal’s limited-time events.

They’ll also be available through in-game shop bundles such as Seekers Supplies and Rift-Runner’s Supplies, but as the name implies these items cost money.

Diablo: Immortal’s pushing of paid-for content in the end-game proved fairly controversial when it launched back in June, with many players upset because Legendary Gems (required for the most powerful upgrades) were only available after purchasing Legendary Crests. 45 of these cost $100 at their cheapest and still only presented a 0.5% chance to receive a Legendary Gem.

Blizzard CEO Mike Ybarra defended the monetisation, however, saying it was implemented to make Diablo: Immortal more accessible.

The late-game cost also came up in our 6/10 review, as IGN said: “Diablo Immortal’s monster slaying action is visceral and satisfying, and the game offers up a huge amount of gameplay for free. That said, its monetisation model and numerous restrictions sour the end game experience, and leave plenty of room for improvement.”

Ryan Dinsdale is an IGN freelancer. He’ll talk about The Witcher all day.