Diablo 4’s Latest Goblin Event Mirrors Diablo 3 Experience

I can’t recall the last time I was this pumped for a March of the Goblins event in Diablo 4. It’s not that the past events were bad or anything, they just always seem to show up when I’ve already snagged most of the gear I’m chasing. Plus, treasure goblins in Diablo 4 haven’t really packed the punch I’d hoped for. But this time, the event launches on March 4, and it’s set to shake things up. We’re seeing the return of many treasure goblin types from Diablo 3, and they’re not just making a cameo—they’re here to stay. For someone who’s fond of Diablo 3, I’m delighted to see the old features making a comeback. Frankly, I wouldn’t mind if they brought even more of them back.

So, when should you mark your calendar? The event kicks off on March 4 at 10 a.m. PST and wraps up on March 11. If you’re on the East Coast, that’s a start time of 1 p.m., and for those in the UK, it starts at 6 p.m. GMT.

For fans of Diablo 3, the March of the Goblins event this year is both bigger and better. It’s bringing back familiar vibes while introducing some fresh elements.

Starting March 4, expect a surge of Treasure Goblin sightings across the world of Sanctuary. Six brand-new variants, each brimming with unique loot, are set to debut:

• Odious Ector: Holds precious crafting materials, including the elusive Obducite available in torment difficulties.
• Gilded Baron: Leaves behind piles of gold as if he stumbled out of a treasure chest.
• Glittering Prym: Our very own gem fanatic, dropping Runes, Gem Fragments, Undercity Tributes, and Scattered Prisms in Torment.
• Curious Murl: Showers you with Murmuring Obols, neatly packed in collectible bags to avoid overflow.
• Gelatinous Syrus: A goblin that keeps multiplying when attacked and gives away Legendary items, gold, and materials for boss summoning.
• Fancy Old Fedric: This mythical rarity goblin is unique to Diablo 4 and could make players gasp with his guaranteed Mythic Unique drops and a Resplendent Spark for crafting.

Many of these newcomers echo beloved goblins from Diablo 3. Take the Glittering Prym, who’s our version of Diablo 3’s Gem Hoarder, and the Gilded Baron, who continues under the same moniker. The Gelatinous Syrus, reminiscent of my old favorite, the Gelatinous Sire from Diablo 3, comes back with a twist.

The March of the Goblins is more than just an event; it’s a nod to the legacy fans cherish. If you’re eager to up your goblin-catching game, I’ve put together a guide that should sway the odds in your favor.

Having spent countless hours farming these elusive goblins in Diablo 3, I’m thrilled beyond measure for this year’s rendition. The return of the Armory in Season 7 coupled with these fresh goblins makes me feel like Blizzard is channeling the best of its past to address the gaps some players felt in Diablo 4. But it has me thinking—why stop at just goblins?

Diablo 3 certainly has its share of critics. Once envisioned as having elements akin to an MMO, many of these features were stripped away and instead found their way into the latest installment, Diablo 4.

Upon its launch, Diablo 3 was met with mixed feelings. The controversial real money auction house and its vibrant palette polarized its audience, setting the stage for debates between loyal Diablo 2 fans and those who welcomed the changes. Even though it wasn’t without its faults, particularly in its progression system dominated by green item sets, Diablo 3 grew into a beloved title post-Reaper of Souls with its seasonal updates and rewarding loot mechanics.

Blizzard seems to remember what worked well and is subtly weaving these elements into Diablo 4. By reintroducing these goblin mechanics, they not only aim to enhance the experience but also rekindle the excitement many players had in earlier chapters of the series.

Meanwhile, the developers addressed player concerns about the much-desired loot filter. I hadn’t thought Diablo 4 needed one until the Season of Witchcraft, where the overload of loot in Headhunt areas made me reconsider.

While Blizzard is hesitant to implement a loot filter, citing that they want even the simplest items to hold value, they could circumnavigate the issue in another innovative way—by reintroducing the auto-salvaging pets from Diablo 3’s Season 28. These pets simplified looting by automatically salvaging less-desirable items.

In Diablo 4, pets primarily serve as cosmetic company, yet they already gather crafting materials on players’ behalf. Why not take this responsibility a step further? It’s a savvy solution that could alleviate the overwhelming loot clutter many players face.

With Diablo 4’s next major expansion slated for 2026, Blizzard needs to bridge the gap. Introducing popular elements from the past, like the goblins and the potential for unique levels from Whimsyshire or the Cow level, could keep fans engaged.

News came out recently from Diablo 4’s General Manager, Rod Fergusson, that Season 8 would be delayed by two weeks. Originally set for April 15, it will now launch on April 29. Eager fans should stay tuned for the March 7 Campfire Chat, when details on the Public Test Realm for the season will be unveiled.

Intriguingly, the announcement hinted at the return of an "old friend." Fans have let their imaginations run wild, speculating who it could be. While it’s unlikely to be Diablo himself, who’s still waiting in the shadows, possibilities span from Zoltun Kulle to perhaps Deckard Cain or Tyrael, characters whose fates have intrigued fans for years.

While delays aren’t always welcomed, if they result in a more polished experience, they’re worthwhile. Whatever twists and turns Blizzard has in store, I eagerly anticipate what’s next.