Blizzard will be limiting accounts of players who have bought Diablo 3 through its online store to Starter Editions. Beta players will be familiar with the limited functionality offered by this version, including:
- Only Act I up to the Skeleton King available
- Level 13 cap
- Matchmaking available only with other Starter Edition players
- No Auction House access
- Global Play not available
- Players attempting to connect to Diablo III Starter Edition in a region other than their Battle.net account’s home region will receive Error 12
Understanding the Starter Edition Limitations
The Starter Edition of Diablo 3 is essentially a trial version of the game, designed to give players a taste of the full experience. By limiting access to only Act I up to the Skeleton King, Blizzard ensures that new players can get a feel for the game’s mechanics, story, and overall atmosphere without committing to the full purchase. The level 13 cap is another way to keep the experience contained, preventing players from advancing too far without upgrading to the full version.
Matchmaking restrictions mean that Starter Edition players can only play with others who are also using the Starter Edition. This helps maintain a balanced playing field and ensures that new players are not overwhelmed by more experienced players who have access to better gear and higher levels. The absence of Auction House access further limits the economic interactions within the game, keeping the Starter Edition experience simple and straightforward.
Global Play, a feature that allows players to connect with others from different regions, is also disabled in the Starter Edition. This means that players are confined to their home region, which can be a drawback for those who have friends in other parts of the world. Additionally, attempting to connect to the Starter Edition in a region other than the Battle.net account’s home region will result in Error 12, preventing access.
Blizzard’s Stance on Digital Purchases
“Digital purchases do require a review period before they kick over from Starter to Full editions. We apologise for the inconvenience, but it is a necessary step to combat fraud and other malicious activities that can weaken everyone’s play experience,” a Blizzard rep wrote in the Diablo forum. “The delay is no longer than three days, and is often much quicker than that. Hang tight. :)”
This review period is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the game. By taking the time to verify digital purchases, Blizzard can identify and prevent fraudulent activities that could disrupt the gaming experience for legitimate players. This step is part of Blizzard’s broader strategy to ensure a fair and enjoyable environment for all players.
While the delay may be frustrating for some, it is important to understand the reasoning behind it. Fraudulent activities, such as account hacking and unauthorized transactions, can have a significant impact on the game’s economy and player experience. By implementing this review period, Blizzard aims to protect its player base and maintain a high standard of security.
Moreover, the transition from Starter to Full edition is often quicker than the maximum three-day period mentioned. Many players report that their accounts are upgraded within a few hours, allowing them to continue their adventure in Sanctuary without much interruption.
In conclusion, while the limitations of the Diablo 3 Starter Edition may seem restrictive, they serve a purpose in providing a controlled and secure introduction to the game. The review period for digital purchases, though potentially inconvenient, is a necessary measure to combat fraud and ensure a fair playing environment. As players progress from the Starter Edition to the Full edition, they can look forward to a richer and more expansive gaming experience.
Source Diablo Forums
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