Season 1 of Diablo 4 has arrived, and with it comes the challenge of leveling a new character from 1 to 100 to access the latest Seasonal content. If you want to level up as quickly as possible and optimize your XP gains, this guide will walk you through the most efficient methods for leveling up, from 1-50 and then from 50-100.

While leveling can be a fun experience, there are plenty of tips to help you make the most of your time and resources. Whether you're grinding solo or with friends, optimizing your strategy will make the journey much faster.

Part 1: Level 1-50

1. Collect Renown Rewards for Bonus XP

Before diving into anything else, returning players should prioritize collecting Renown rewards. These rewards are earned by exploring and completing objectives in each region. Renown rewards will grant you significant XP bonuses, so it's worth visiting the Renown section on the map and claiming these rewards early on. Be sure to complete each region's tasks to maximize your XP gains.

2. Repeat Strongholds for the Best XP Gains

Strongholds are an excellent source of XP when leveling from 1-50. The Stronghold system allows you to reset certain areas after completing them, effectively giving you a repeatable XP farm. Here's how you can optimize this method:

Levels 12-17: Focus on the Malnok and Nostrava Strongholds near Kyovashad. These have a minimum level of 15, so you can start grinding them early.

Levels 17-22: After hitting level 17, start grinding the Onyx Watchtower, Moordaine Lodge, or Hope's Light. These Strongholds have a minimum level of 20, so you can get the most XP when your character is at level 20.

Levels 22-32: Head to the Kor Dragan Stronghold in Fractured Peaks for an optimal farming experience. This area has a minimum level of 25, so you'll maximize your XP gains by grinding here until you hit level 32.

Levels 32-45: Finally, grind the Temple of Rot Stronghold. This area has a strong XP payout and will carry you through to level 45. After that, you'll be ready to tackle the Cathedral of Light Capstone Dungeon to progress to World Tier 2.

3. Stick to World Tier 1 for Efficient Leveling

When leveling from 1-50, World Tier 1 (Adventurer difficulty) is your best friend. The base XP gains on this difficulty are much more manageable, and the fights won't slow you down. If you switch to World Tier 2 too early, you'll face much harder enemies that will slow down your leveling process. Only switch to World Tier 2 when you are ready to tackle the Cathedral of Light Capstone Dungeon between levels 45-50.

4. Team Up with Friends for an XP Boost

Playing with others can significantly boost your XP gains. When you're near other players in Diablo 4, you'll receive a 5% XP boost, which doubles to 10% when you're at a party. This makes multiplayer play a great option for leveling up quickly.

Moreover, playing in a party also makes content easier to complete, so you'll progress through quests and dungeons faster than you would solo. Find some friends or join a group to level up at an accelerated pace.

5. Craft XP-Boosting Elixirs

Once you hit level 10, you'll unlock the Alchemist in all hub towns. The Alchemist can craft Elixirs that provide a 5% XP boost for 30 minutes. These are easy to craft using common plant materials found while exploring. Always keep a stash of Elixirs to further boost your XP gains.

Part 2: Level 50-100 (Endgame)

6. Switch to World Tier 3 and Focus on Nightmare Dungeons

Once you reach level 50, it's time to switch to World Tier 3. At this point, Nightmare Dungeons become your primary source of XP and loot. Nightmare Dungeons scale with difficulty and offer high XP rewards, especially for challenging encounters. These dungeons will help you level up quickly, and they provide good rewards to improve your gear.

7. Play with Friends and Use XP Elixirs

The same multiplayer benefits and XP Elixirs apply to World Tier 3 and beyond. Even though you'll be in the endgame, don't forget to group up with others for those XP boosts. While the XP bonuses are smaller compared to the early game, every little bit counts in the race to 100.

8. Grind Nightmare Dungeons from Level 50-70

Nightmare Dungeons will carry you from levels 50-70. These dungeons become increasingly difficult, so you may need to adjust your gear and tactics to keep up. As you progress, you'll encounter tougher enemies, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

9. Complete the Fallen Temple Capstone Dungeon

Once you hit levels 65-70, it's time to tackle the Fallen Temple Capstone Dungeon. Completing this dungeon will unlock World Tier 4. This new difficulty provides a massive XP bonus, allowing you to continue leveling at an accelerated rate.

10. Grind Nightmare Dungeons in World Tier 4

Once you unlock World Tier 4, continue grinding Nightmare Dungeons until you hit level 100. At this stage, the difficulty is at its peak, but the XP rewards are significantly higher. The final stretch to level 100 will require the most effort, but it will be well worth it for the powerful loot and seasonal rewards.

Final Thoughts

Leveling in Diablo 4 is a journey that rewards efficiency, preparation, and a little bit of teamwork. From Renown rewards and Strongholds in the early game to Nightmare Dungeons in the endgame, there are plenty of ways to accelerate your leveling process. By focusing on XP boosts from Elixirs, playing in a party, and sticking to the right World Tiers, you can quickly progress to level 100 and start enjoying Seasonal content to its fullest.

For those looking to speed up their progress even further, platforms like MMOexp provide safe, affordable options to purchase Diablo 4 gold and Legendary Diablo 4 items, helping you focus more on gameplay and less on grinding for resources.

Happy leveling, and may your journey through Diablo 4 be filled with loot, fun, and powerful upgrades!