When it was first explained to me way back in 2008, the power-enhancing rune system of Diablo III sounded like it would lead to countless permutations of every skill and spell in the game. Now it’s only five, but they’re still pretty spectacular.
https://lastchance.cc/diablo-iiis-coolest-feature-the-rune-system-5062731%3C/a%3E%3C/p%3E
Take the Demon Hunter’s Cluster Arrow skill, seen above. Adding a crimson runestone to the skill merely increases the damage done. A golden rune transforms the explosions into shadow creatures, leeching life from enemies and returning it to the Demon Hunter. Alabaster adds a stun effect, obsidian rains down grenades, and indigo fires enemy-seeking missiles.
Runestones come in different power ranks as well, with their special effects becoming more pronounced as the power level increases.
For a closer look at this simple-yet-effective way of mixing up skills and spells, check out the Diablo III runestone page
Ray of Frost
Sweeping Wind
Acid Cloud
Whirlwind
