The highly anticipated Patch 1.1 for Diablo 4 has finally arrived, bringing significant changes to the Druid class regarding buffs and nerfs. Whether you are an experienced Druid player or planning to embark on a Druid journey in Season One, this guide will walk you through the changes and their implications for the class. We'll discuss various popular builds, new uniques and legendaries and how these changes will likely affect your gameplay experience.

• New Uniques and Legendaries
• Balance Changes to Skills and Aspects
• Nerfs to Defensive Abilities and Aspect of the Grizzly Rage
• Spirit Boons and Malignant Hearts
• Hidden Changes and Bug Fixes
• Druid's Overall Position After Patch 1.1

↖ New Uniques and Legendaries

Patch 1.1 introduces several new uniques and legendaries for Druids, offering exciting possibilities for different builds. Among them, the Uber unique staff stands out, offering a random Shrine effect for 10 to 20 seconds after killing an Elite. While this staff is exceptionally rare, its effect can be quite impactful when it triggers. Additionally, the unique Flesh Render, a one-handed mace, could potentially lead to a powerful poison build, dealing extra damage to nearby poisoned enemies.

↖ Balance Changes to Skills and Aspects

The patch brings numerous balance changes to the Druid's skills and aspects, affecting various playstyles. Some highlights include a buff to Claw's attack speed bonus, increased damage for Boulder, and improvements to Cataclysm that may push lightning build into the forefront. However, not all changes are positive, as Storm Strike's base damage reduction and Prime Grizzly Rage's Unstoppable duration have been significantly nerfed. These changes may force players to adopt more cautious playstyles, potentially impacting overall damage output.

↖ Nerfs to Defensive Abilities and Aspect of the Grizzly Rage

Unfortunately, the patch hits Druids' defensive capabilities. The "Grizzly Rage" aspect now only grants Unstoppable for six seconds, compared to the previous duration, making surviving more challenging. Additionally, the "Masochistic" and "Iron Feather" aspects' healing and maximum life increase were toned down, affecting overall survivability.

↖ Spirit Boons and Malignant Hearts

One of the most significant additions to the game is the Malignant Hearts, which have the potential to alter Druid builds significantly. The Moon Rage Heart can benefit companion builds, while Trouble Force introduces a much-needed pulling effect, opening new strategic possibilities. While some Malignant Hearts can help offset the nerfs, it's worth noting that they are exclusive to the Season One experience.

↖ Hidden Changes and Bug Fixes

Druids received some changes that were not listed in the official patch notes. For example, the Tooltip for Venom's effect was corrected to reflect the correct crit damage multiplier. Additionally, the Avian Wrath Spirit Boon, previously listed as a multiplier but acting as an additive, has been fixed to function as intended. These changes may not be game-changing, but they improve the class.

↖ Druid's Overall Position After Patch 1.1

Despite some substantial nerfs, Druids have come out relatively strong compared to other classes in the game. While certain builds may have been affected, Druids remain a competitive class in Season One. The class-specific unique items, the Spirit Boon changes, and the new uniques and legendaries open up exciting possibilities for creative and viable builds.

Conclusion

Patch 1.1 has brought both buffs and nerfs to the Druid class in Diablo 4. While some popular builds may have been impacted, the Druids remain strong and competitive compared to other classes. The introduction of new uniques, legendaries, and Malignant Hearts offers fresh opportunities for different playstyles.