Prepare your weaponry, for Diablo IV is introducing a fresh competitive gameplay experience known as the Gauntlet.
What Is Gauntlet?
The Gauntlet represents the inaugural player-versus-environment competitive game mode introduced in Diablo IV. It forms an integral component of the broader Trials framework, serving as a central hub for such content. Keen observers may have already noticed its presence within the in-game tab.
Functionally, the Gauntlet operates on a weekly seasonal basis, offering players in World Tier 4 the opportunity to engage in a static, non-linear dungeon experience. This setup allows participants to chart their own course through the dungeon, striving to achieve the highest score attainable.
Points are earned by dispatching monsters, defeating bosses, and unlocking chests, all within the confines of an eight-minute time constraint. In the interest of maintaining fairness, all aspects of the Gauntlet, including map layout, shrine placements, boss spawn points, and monster abilities, remain consistent for all participants.
Players are encouraged to venture into battle either individually or alongside companions, as they endeavor to conquer and master the Gauntlet across 16 distinct leaderboards. These leaderboards are categorized based on factors such as character class, group size, platform preference, and the chosen game mode, whether Hardcore or Normal.
What Is The Gauntlet Designed To Do?
The Gauntlet is meticulously crafted to inspire mastery. Each week presents a fresh puzzle awaiting your skillful navigation. Whether solo or with your group, you can tailor strategies to match your unique build and playstyle.
Given the non-linear nature of the dungeon, you’ll need to weigh your options and chart the most advantageous path. Timing becomes critical, whether it’s seizing chests or activating pillars.
Speaking of pillars, developers have introduced two distinctive variants to the Gauntlet. The first, Pillar of Glory, offers a score multiplier throughout its duration. Ideal for maximizing points in densely populated monster areas, where kills directly contribute to your score.
On the other hand, Pillar of Proving rejuvenates all enemies in the vicinity, injecting more excitement into the fray. After all, who doesn’t relish the opportunity to vanquish more foes? These innovative tools within the Gauntlet foster diverse approaches to scoring, setting you apart from competitors.
Furthermore, bosses in the Gauntlet spawn shrines upon defeat, leading to a shrine-ception scenario. Having a Barbarian in your party can prove invaluable for navigating the depths of the Gauntlet, ensuring you’re always prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead.
These additions serve to underscore the importance of strategic thinking as you tackle each weekly Gauntlet map.
How Does The Leaderboards Work?
After completing your initial Gauntlet run, you’ll be assigned a designated rank, which we’ve dubbed “seals.”
As you achieve higher scores, you’ll progress to superior seals, each with predetermined score thresholds. Technically, it’s possible to leap directly to the final seal with exceptional performance.
The seals are categorized as Blooded, Steadfast, Iron-willed, and Worthy. The leaderboard will showcase the top 1,000 players, resetting every Tuesday. Depending on your seal rank, you’ll receive an emblem and loot caches.
Gear rewards correspond to your seal rank. For instance, Worthy players will obtain Diablo 4 Items at a level of 925. These ranks provide a gauge of your performance.
It’s essential to note that the leaderboard exclusively features the top 1,000 players for each ladder. Progressing through the seals serves as a marker of your journey.
Moreover, the Top 10 players in each ladder each week will earn a place of honor in the Hall of the Ancients, ensuring their legacy endures.
Navigating The Gauntlet: Key Insights & Considerations
The following provides insights into different aspects of the Gauntlet mode in Diablo IV.
Shrines And Boss Kills
Shrines only spawn when a boss is defeated in the Gauntlet.
These shrines remain consistent each time a particular boss is slain, offering some variety, as they are randomly chosen from those available in the game world.
Leaderboard And Builds
While the leaderboard displays player profiles, including their current build, there’s no snapshot of the specific build they used at the time of completing the Gauntlet.
However, developers are open to enhancing the mode based on player feedback.
Tips For New Players
The Gauntlet is accessible to players below level 100, but it's designed for mastery, catering to those comfortable in the endgame.
Newer players should focus on enjoying their chosen build and understanding its mechanics, while exploring different strategies within the Gauntlet.
Limitations On Skill And Gear Swapping
Players cannot swap their gear or skills once inside the Gauntlet.
However, they can use consumables to enhance their performance. This limitation may be subject to change based on community feedback and further development of the Gauntlet.
