What's happening with Diablo is very upsetting to the developer.
Recently, Moon Studios boss Thomas Mahler decided to remind everyone about his game No Rest for the Wicked.
He did so in a specific manner — taking a jab at other ARPG projects:
Hey, streamers! Everyone knows that in Diablo 4 or PoE2, anyone can look cool. But wouldn't you like to show your viewers that you actually have skills? Try No Rest for the Wicked. Precise combat. No "imba-builds." No spam. Cooperative beta is already live, 30% off on Steam. Stop being casual. It's time to play....No Rest for the Wicked
Former Blizzard President Mike Ybarra responded to this:
It doesn't really work to belittle other games to promote your own. Let your game prove what it's worth. Haven't played it in a while, but I'll be interested to launch it again — I want to see what you've achieved.
Thomas Mahler decided to respond and criticized the policies of Blizzard's management — he believes that the managers have caused irreparable damage to the Diablo franchise:
Mike, honestly: you were entrusted with Diablo, and you didn't show it proper respect. Diablo once really meant something. Diablo 2 was a true masterpiece and showed the world what Western developers are capable of. And you approved turning Diablo into a slot machine with microtransactions, where players can buy horse armor for $65. Should we gamers thank you for this? Or would some honest criticism be appropriate? It's time for managers to stop patting themselves on the back after they ruin fan-favorite franchises and start taking some personal responsibility [...]
[...] You were in charge when Blizzard made Diablo Immortal and Diablo 4. You are responsible for this. And both games have caused irreparable damage to the Diablo franchise that we once knew and loved. I suppose that's why you were kicked out — now you, Mike, are heading some company related to gambling. So don't lecture me about game design [...]
