Allegedly, such is the latest picture, now making rounds in social media showing what could have been the first detailed look at Skovos, the desired place that may feature in the impending Lord of Hatred expansion of Diablo 4. Although Blizzard Entertainment has confirmed that the story will eventually lead all players to the Skovos Isles, an area that has been discussed for a long time in the lore of the series but never fully explored, they are still quiet on the actual geographical arrangement, zone, or layout specifics. So, if this leak is true, this is the first real impact the developer has made at giving evidence as to how the expansion will work in overworld terms.
The leaked imagery evokes a variable topography that is consistent with the established history of the region. Traditionally known as the Askari people, Skovos is said to be a Mediterranean-inspired island archipelago characterized by thick jungles and sprawling coastal architecture. The map layout shown in recent reports indicates considerable landmass, which will open up the current Estuar map considerably, revealing multiple distinct biomes likely to house the new endgame activities and dungeons initially promised in the expansion roadmap.
Insider veterans may note that leaks that are not entirely the norm happen just before Blizzard is about to release something huge, and the timing of this specific leak bears weight. Currently, the community is fixed on overhauls regarding seasonal balance and itemization—along comes a leaked map, which really reminds people of the longer-term strategy that Blizzard has put into place to keep players in for the long run. The detail in the rendering, including what might be waypoints and regional borders, indicate that the game is well into production, although “Lord of Hatred” remains a matter of speculation among fans.
As of current, Blizzard still has not issued any official word condemning or refuting the leak of the Skovos map. Until the developer shall have a formal reveal, most likely at a future Campfire Chat or major industry showcase, players will have to regard these images as unverified. But, given the alignment of this leak with established lore, it suggests that the journey to the home of the Amazons is closer than most had supposed, which is perhaps one of the most major milestones in the expansion of the franchise’s world.
