### Exciting Developments in Diablo 4: Paladin Class and Lord of Hatred Expansion Announced Blizzard Entertainment has made significant announcements regarding its popular action RPG, Diablo 4, during The Game Awards 2025. The long-awaited Paladin class is now available for players, marking a major addition to the game that fans have been eagerly anticipating. Furthermore, Blizzard revealed the upcoming expansion titled "Lord of Hatred," set to launch on April 28, 2026, which will introduce another new class alongside the Paladin and revamp various game mechanics, including skill trees and endgame content [https://variety.com/2025/gaming/news/diablo-iv-paladin-divinity-game-007-first-light-game-awards-1236606894][https://www.pcgamer.com/games/rpg/diablo-4s-highly-anticipated-paladin-class-is-playable-today-before-its-second-expansion-launches-next-year]. ### Breakdown of Key Announcements and Features 1. **Paladin Class Availability**: - The Paladin class is now playable for those who pre-purchase the "Lord of Hatred" expansion, allowing players to experience its unique abilities ahead of the expansion's full release [https://www.gosugamers.net/entertainment/news/77716-paladin-class-now-playable-in-diablo-iv-ahead-of-the-lord-of-hatred-expansion]. 2. **Lord of Hatred Expansion Details**: - The expansion will introduce a second new class, alongside the Paladin, and is expected to conclude the ongoing Mephisto arc that began in the original Diablo 4 [https://www.vg247.com/diablo-4-lord-of-hatred-the-game-awards-paladin-new-classes]. - It will also feature significant updates to the game's endgame mechanics, skill trees, and crafting systems, enhancing the overall gameplay experience [https://tech.yahoo.com/gaming/articles/next-diablo-4-expansion-lord-043000538.html]. 3. **Release and Pre-order Information**: - "Lord of Hatred" is available for pre-order now, with various editions offering different digital bonuses, including early access to the Paladin class [https://rpgsite.net/news/19169-diablo-iv-lord-of-hatred-releases-on-april-28-2026-with-pre-orders-including-paladin-early-access-now]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Paladin Class**: - The Paladin is a highly requested class, known for its versatility and support capabilities, making it a significant addition to the game's roster [https://www.gamesradar.com/games/diablo/surprise-diablo-4s-new-paladin-class-is-available-to-play-right-now]. - **Expansion Features**: - The "Lord of Hatred" expansion is set to include: - Two new character classes (Paladin and an undisclosed class). - Revamped skill trees and crafting systems. - A new region that evokes nostalgia for fans of Diablo 2 [https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/diablo4-lord-of-hatred-paladin]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for Diablo 4 In summary, **Blizzard's announcements at The Game Awards 2025 have set the stage for an exciting new chapter in Diablo 4**. The immediate availability of the Paladin class and the upcoming "Lord of Hatred" expansion promise to enhance gameplay and engage the community. 1. **Paladin Class Now Playable**: Fans can experience the new class immediately with pre-orders. 2. **Expansion Launch**: "Lord of Hatred" is scheduled for April 28, 2026, introducing another new class and significant gameplay updates. 3. **Enhanced Gameplay**: The expansion will revamp key game mechanics, ensuring a fresh experience for players. These developments reflect Blizzard's commitment to evolving the Diablo franchise and responding to player feedback [https://www.polygon.com/diablo-4-expansion-lord-of-hatred-release-date-paladin-horadric-cube][https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/diablo-4-lord-hatred-everything-we-know-so-far-first-trailer-1762400].