When Diablo 4 Season 1 launches, one of the most popular leveling methods will be grinding and resetting strongholds. The Onyx Watchtower is the first stronghold you should consider grinding when you reach around levels 17-19. In this guide, we'll explore the Onyx Watchtower and provide you with a quick overview of one of the most efficient leveling methods in the game for Season 1.

• About the Onyx Watchtower Strongholds
• Leveling Preparations
• Accessing the Onyx Watchtower
• Clearing the Onyx Watchtower
• Resetting the Onyx Watchtower
• Split Farming in a Group

↖ About the Onyx Watchtower Strongholds

In Diablo 4, the Onyx Watchtower is one of the Strongholds players can encounter. Strongholds are heavily fortified areas in the game world that have been taken over by demons. Clearing these Strongholds not only eliminates the demonic threat but also has a lasting impact on the game world.

The Onyx Watchtower is specifically situated in the Dry Steppes region. It is advised for players who have reached level 33 or higher to venture into this stronghold. Clearing out the Onyx Watchtower has significant benefits for players. Once the stronghold is cleansed of demons, it transforms into a safe haven, providing players with a new town-like environment.

By clearing the Onyx Watchtower, players unlock a variety of additional content and features. This includes new side quests, dungeons, waypoints, shortcuts, and more. These elements enhance the gameplay experience, offering players more exploration opportunities, challenges, and rewards.

↖ Leveling Preparations

Before diving into the Onyx Watchtower, there are a few important things to note. Blizzard has confirmed that the map will look different in Season 1, with the ability to log in to your main account and reveal the map account-wide. So, make sure to expose as much of the map as you can, finish your campaign, grab your altars, and complete your Renown before starting the leveling process.

↖ Accessing the Onyx Watchtower

Once you've reached level 17 or 18, head to the Ked Bardu Waypoint and travel southeast. You'll come across the Onyx Watchtower stronghold. This is where the efficient leveling method begins.

↖ Clearing the Onyx Watchtower

Upon entering the stronghold, you'll notice cages that provide extra loot when broken. These cages also spawn additional Elite packs, making the Onyx Watchtower an ideal location for farming experience points (XP). The density of enemies and loot is higher here compared to other strongholds.

The objective is to clear the stronghold efficiently and gather as much XP and Gold as possible. Break the cages, engage the Elites, and progress through the stronghold. Avoid rushing through the content to fully experience the leveling method.

↖ Resetting the Onyx Watchtower

Instead of completing the stronghold, you can reset it to continue farming efficiently. After clearing the stronghold and acquiring the desired loot, hit the Escape key and leave the game. Rejoin the game, and it will place you back at the entrance of the stronghold.

This resetting process is beneficial even for solo players, allowing them to quickly restart the Onyx Watchtower and continue gathering experience and loot. Each time you leave and rejoin, you'll be placed at the southwestern entrance of the stronghold.

↖ Split Farming in a Group

For players in a group, you can split up to maximize efficiency. One player can take the northern lane, another can go through the center, and a third player can clear the southern area. This way, you can cover more ground and eliminate more enemies, accelerating the leveling process.

Conclusion:

The Onyx Watchtower is an excellent leveling method for Season 1 in Diablo 4. It offers high enemy density, numerous loot opportunities, and efficient XP farming. Leveling quickly allows you to progress through the World Tiers and advance your account's progress. Remember to reset the stronghold by leaving the game and rejoining for continuous farming.