My new Necromancer gloves
Blizzard's goal for the Diablo 4 beta is to get a wide range of classes into the hands of community members for playtesting and feedback. The aim is to create a balanced game with various viable builds that allow players to customize their gameplay without relying on RNG.
While some of the Uniques in the game are designed for specific builds, I enjoy the challenge of building around unique items that don't necessarily fit the bill. For instance, on my main Shadow Necro in the Diablo 4 beta, the Bloodless Scream scythe adds a fun twist by forcing my Dissipation skill to Chill. It may not be ideal, but I don't mind experimenting with it.
Transforming gameplay with Howl From Below gloves
The real game-changer for me is the Howl From Below Necromancer gloves. In my quest to find the best Diablo 4 build with my newly-minted Grenadier, these gloves completely alter the gameplay. Instead of exploding a body, the Howl From Below gloves summon a sprinting skeleton that detonates upon finding an enemy, creating an endless parade of suicidal skeletons.
Integrating the Howl From Below gloves into my setup has been a challenge. While they may seem suboptimal due to their randomness, they offer a unique and exciting playstyle. However, my Grenadier becomes vulnerable during the skeleton summoning process, as the skeletons may target the wrong enemy or run in the opposite direction. At times, they even wander off, halting their onslaught. It's like being a minion watching my volatile, boneheaded minions walk off a cliff. I'm usually at their mercy.
Despite the challenges, I find great appreciation for these random and unexpected Unique items. When they work as intended, the sense of excitement is unmatched by other builds. It makes me feel like a commander leading my skeletal army to tear through enemies. Additionally, I value the countless ways these suboptimal Unique items can be integrated into my setup. It feels rewarding to bridge the gaps in the suboptimal build created by these items.
Respec cost concerns
However, there is one complaint I have after experimenting with the best Uniques in the Diablo 4 beta: the high cost of respeccing if the chosen items turn out to be suboptimal. Diablo 3 is notorious for its expensive respec cost, and although in the beta it may cost as much as five Diablo 4 Enduring Essences, it is still a hefty price to pay for a mistake in item selection.
It seems that Diablo 4 aims to eliminate suboptimal item builds by making it easier to experiment with these items without incurring costly respecs. Until then, I'll have to create a new Necromancer each season to try out all the Unique items. With Diablo 4 Plagueshard opening quests on the horizon, it's the perfect time to explore the best Diablo 4 Class Talents and incorporate them into your build.
