In a move that has stunned Diablo‘s biggest fans, Blizzard Entertainment has confirmed that the auction house for Diablo 3‘s PC version will be shutting down on March 18th.
In a video announcement from Blizzard, production director John Hight and game director Josh Mosqueira talked about the various reasons behind shutting down the controversial auction house. The main reason explained is that even though the system was put in place—under previous lead designer Jay Wilson—to modernize the series’ archaic trade systems, it has hindered Diablo 3‘s foundation. An overabundance of rare items have found their way to the hands of players who have done little more than navigate the AH’s UI, jeopardizing the thrill of being able to don such armor.
This drastic move will occur in congruence with a loot overhaul, a gear wipe of sorts. Those who have shortcut their way into legendary gear will have no choice but to grind for the new tier of gear and weapons. The game’s first expansion pack, Reaper of Souls, will arrive around the same time.
For further information of why this decision has been made, and the director’s feeling behind it all, take a gander at the video below.
