Strongholds in Diablo 4 & Rewards Explained

One of the new features in Diablo 4 compared to previous titles in the iconic ARPG franchise is Strongholds. These are bastions of pure evil that players will need to clear out. That sounds like a dungeon, right? Not exactly, as completing a Stronghold changes the world of Sanctuary for the player.

This guide explains exactly what Strongholds are in Diablo 4, how they affect the world, and the rewards, both in terms of loot and in terms of changes to the world players can expect for completing them.

Update on 17 July 2023: We've updated this article to reflect the latest details about Strongholds in Diablo 4.

What Are Diablo 4 Strongholds? Explained

Strongholds are marked on the player's map as Red Skulls, and you will need to explore the map to find them. For example, in Fractured Peaks, the game's first area, there are a total of three Strongholds found thus far. An in-game description of Strongholds reads:

Heroic adventurers can clear out Strongholds such as this one, claiming them once again for the citizens of Sanctuary. The town will never be the same, but victory here can leave a lasting mark and transform this hostile region into a safe haven.

Completing Strongholds in Diablo 4 has a lasting impact on Sanctuary. Importantly, Strongholds are private encounters, just like the story campaign. This means it can be completed Solo or in a Party, but you won't see other players around (that are not in your party) while battling in a Stronghold.

Once a Stronghold has been completed, it will transform into a public space where you will be able to see other players who have completed it. 

Diablo 4 Stronghold Rewards

There's a lot of shiny, random loot as rewards for completing Strongholds. We expect high-tier legendary loot for your level, materials, and more. However, Strongholds offer a lot more than just loot and experience.

Diablo 4 players will also get Renown Points for the area they complete a Stronghold in. From beta reports, we believe players will get 100 Renown Points per Stronghold.

Furthermore, after you've fully completed a Stronghold, you might get other world rewards, such as new dungeons unlocking, new quests, and Waypoints. Some Strongholds even offer shortcuts to other areas as a completion reward and new NPCs to talk to. New vendors might also appear, and new tidbits of lore, or even a path to another Altar of Lilith, could be unlocked.

In a developer livestream update for Diablo 4, Blizzard discussed the Strongholds system and showcased some gameplay from the Hope's Light Stronghold as a Barbarian. Check it out below.

That's everything we know about Strongholds in Diablo 4 so far. Stay tuned as we will continue to bring you all the latest info and endeavor to update this article if any details get added or changed.

For more Diablo 4, be sure to check out our dedicated section or some of our Guides & Tutorials just below:

Our section keeps growing, so check for new guides daily! Don't forget to pick up one of the Diablo 4 Editions and join the fight to save Sanctuary soon.