Blizzard warns of Diablo III log-in delays

Be sure you have just a weee bit of patience on Diablo III launch day next week; even when you have the game in your hands, it may take you a few moments before Blizzard actually lets you log in and play the game.

Indeed.

It may take up to 40 seconds to log in, a step Blizzard’s taken to keep the expected stress on its servers manageable.

“Please be aware that a delay of up to 40 seconds is possible while the game attempts to connect you,” they say. “If your connection doesn’t succeed in 40 seconds, you’ll be presented with an Error 37 message and asked to try again.”

“If you see this error it does in fact mean that you should try again. We’ll be working around the clock to keep you informed of any issues that are occurring through the in-game breaking news window, as well as the official forums.”

The studio is also asking players to create their BattleTags (required to play the game) now, in order to have things go smoother next Tuesday.

“We expect that on launch night both the game service and website will be under very heavy strain due to the immense number of people excited to be among the first playing Diablo 3. With that in mind, we highly recommend you create your BattleTag now, as it’s required to play Diablo 3.”

May 15th, or next Tuesday, is when the fun begins.