In Diablo III, going it alone is a valid option… but it's not always the safest one," reads the official website. Enter the follower system, which provides players with additional firepower and ensures that their adventure will never be a lonesome one.
Blizzard has announced three NPC companions: Kormac, a hulking, spear-wielding Templar; the Scoundrel, Lyndon, a roguish wanderer armed with a crossbow; and the Enchantress, Eirena, who channels sorcerous forces to down your foes.
"Each follower has his or her own agenda and reasons for fighting against the darkness, and you'll learn more about their histories and motives as you battle alongside them," says Blizzard.
"Followers are powerful allies in Diablo III. THey've got skills, gear, levels, personalities and dialogue, and we've put a lot of work into the system — but our goal is to ensure they don't get in your way, outpace you in damage, or outshine your importance to the story. They're sidekicks. You're the hero."
Players will only be able to use a single follower at a time, so you'll have to choose which character compliments your play style the best.
Blizzard has scheduled what it calls an external beta test for the third quarter of 2011.