Blizzard Entertainment has officially launched Season 8 of Diablo IV, titled “Belial’s Return,” which became available globally on April 29, 2025. In this latest season, players are drawn into a dark, twisted narrative featuring Belial’s return, the infamous Lord of Lies. Known for his cunning and manipulation, Belial brings a wave of deception to Sanctuary, setting the stage for a battle against monsters, but against misinformation and illusion itself.
The campaign centres around the sudden rise of Apparition Monsters, spectral entities that appear where reality seems to fracture. These apparitions are manifestations of fear and deceit, hinting at Belial’s growing influence. The journey begins when players encounter Sayeena, a reclusive but powerful Vizjerei mage who senses a familiar corruption returning to the world. She is joined by Jarius, a devout yet eccentric warrior claiming allegiance to the Cathedral of Light, who suspects that the corruption has infiltrated even the church itself.
Together, the trio seeks to uncover a sinister plot involving disguised truths, possessed allies, and tainted relics. As they track the spread of the apparitions across Sanctuary, players will uncover visions from the past and present that are not always what they seem. The quest unfolds across multiple zones and instanced story events, culminating in a confrontation with Belial in a battle that tests perception as much as power. The campaign is layered with moral ambiguity and choices that challenge players to discern lies from truth, making it one of the most narrative-driven experiences yet in Diablo IV.
Beyond the story, Season 8 introduces Boss Powers, a new gameplay mechanic allowing players to collect and customise unique abilities gained from defeated bosses. These powers are slotted into new Main and Modifier sockets, offering deeper character customisation and build variety. Also new this season are upgraded Lair Bosses, enhanced world events, a refreshed Reliquary Battle Pass, and exclusive cosmetics like the “Fetters of the Nether Lion” set from Tejal’s Shop.
“Belial’s Return” will run until July 2025, leading directly into Season 9, titled “Sins of the Horadrim,” promising continued story development and further gameplay enhancements. With its mix of mystery, strategy, and classic Diablo intensity, Season 8 marks a standout chapter in the evolving saga of Diablo IV.
