Alright, let’s jump right into my mercenary testing today. Wanted to figure out which Diablo 2 merc actually pulls their weight when things get messy in Hell difficulty. Grabbed my level 85 Hammerdin and started grinding runs.
Act 1 Testing
Hired that Rogue archer chick with Cold Arrow. Felt hopeful watching her slow down mobs early on. Big mistake later though. Watched her get absolutely stomped by Frenzytaurs in Act 5 like tissue paper. Even gave her my top-tier Buriza crossbow – she’d just stand there getting slapped while missing shots. Had to feed her health potions like baby food.
Act 2 Trial Run
Switched to the desert spear guys. Holy Freeze aura felt amazing in crowded areas. But then came the infuriating parts:
- Dude walks directly into Baal’s green crap puddles like a tourist
- Kept getting body-blocked in doorways when I tried to retreat
- Wasted 3 full rehires after he face-tanked Lister’s pack
His damage was legit when he actually attacked, but man is he suicidal.
Gave Act 3 Mages A Shot
Hired the Lightning guy thinking he’d zap crowds. Worst decision ever. His spells tickled monsters while my repair bills exploded. Saw him casting charged bolt at a single Fallen while my Paladin got swarmed. Felt like bringing a water pistol to a demon war.
Act 5 Experiment
Finally tried the Barb with Lawbringer runeword. Game changer! Holy shit this guy survives:
- Doesn’t just rush into instant death like Act 2 moron
- Actually interrupts enemy attacks with Bash
- Sanctuary aura pushes back undead crowds perfectly
Watched him solo a pack of Frenzied Ice Boars while I handled casters. Actually felt like teamwork for once.
Final verdict? Act 2 mercs might look cool with their auras but they’re glorified lemmings. Act 5 Barbarian actually understands positioning and doesn’t suicide into fire. Never going back.