In Diablo 3, an exploit was found on the test server that nearly ruined the next season.
Exploits on test servers are a sensitive matter, and it hasn’t always turned out well for Diablo 3. As YouTuber Rhykker recounts, in earlier seasons, small groups of players discovered an exploit on the test server, kept it secret, and then used it at the start of the new season in Diablo 3 to gain a huge advantage in the rankings.
Just such an exploit was found this time again, but it was reported and then neutralized by Blizzard.
With the exploit, it was possible to complete a level 1 rift, but it was counted as if one had defeated the boss of a “Greater Rift” at the highest possible level. This worked by clicking the portals at the right time, tricking the game into thinking one was completing a high Greater Rift, while in reality, one was only in a smaller, normal rift. One beat on a weakling but was rewarded with a position on the leaderboard as if one had slain a titan.
On the test server, a guild of players exploited this bug extensively to draw Blizzard’s attention. This allowed the players of the guild to complete rifts that were well above level 100. However, it always only displayed “99”; apparently, the Diablo 3 system cannot represent three-digit rifts.
The bug underlying the exploit has been known as the “Double Rift Exploit” for some time. However, with the elimination of the Realm of Trials, the bug only gained this significance with Season 4 on the test server.
The YouTuber strongly advises against going exploit hunting on the live server, as that could lead to trouble and bans; however, the test server is made exactly for such purposes – if one reports it.
