If you've read my whining about the open world of Diablo 4, you know that I first played Diablo 1 earlier this year, and DevilutionX is a fan-made source port of the pioneering original on a modern system with all sorts of 21st century comforts, including gamepad support and high frame rates. It was version 1.4 when I played it, but the recent 1.5 update (discovered by GamingOnLinux) makes it better than ever.

The GitHub page explains in detail what DevilutionX 1.5 brings, but here are some highlights. First of all, the game's multiplayer mode now allows players to complete all of Diablo's quests, damage values now fluctuate, and inventory slots now switch colors based on item quality.

The game is now playable on the original Xbox.

DevilutionX really deserves a shout out. Earlier this year I played D1 like a dream on my M1 MacBook Air (Whoopi Goldberg would be proud) and it looks even better. To be able to play an old classic in a modern resolution setting, with modern controls, and even with Steam Deck is a godsend. I plan to play "Hellfire" at some point.

DevilutionX is available on GitHub, but remember that you need an (authorized) copy of the original game to make it work. Just download the latest version and copy DIABDAT.MPQ from the game's installation folder to the DevilutionX folder. If you want to play Hellfire, you will also need to copy hellfire.mpq, hfmonk.mpq, hfmusic.mpq, and hfvoice.mpq. For more detailed installation instructions, including how to install on Switch, 3DS and smartphones, see here. God bless our fans.