The more popular a game, the more stringent its fan boys will be about directions deemed as off the beaten path. A Blizzard Entertainment job advertisement posted earlier this morning brought hope to many fans disappointed in the art style being employed by Diablo III. It would seem those protestors didn't take Blizzard's promise to stick by the art direction seriously, as Blizzard has responded to speculation surrounding the job ad.

Explaining that the previous art director had resigned to pursue other interest, a Blizzard representative told Shacknews that whoever fills the position will not affect Diablo III's style. "We're really pleased with the look and feel ... [of] Diablo III, and the new person we bring on board will work with the other artists on the team to maintain the art style moving forward," the representative said.

Those complaining about Diablo III's slightly lighter, more vibrant look claim that the aesthetics do not adhere to the series' dark tone allegedly maintained in the hit sequel and its Lord of Destruction expansion pack. What they seem to have forgotten is that many areas of Diablo II, such as the majority of Acts II and V, were quite a bit brighter than the darker, gothic atmosphere featured in the original game.