Since the release of Diablo 4 in June 2023, fans have been on the hunt for clues pointing toward the existence of the Secret Cow Level, a long-running joke in the Diablo series. While Blizzard has yet to confirm its inclusion in Diablo 4, recent discoveries of specific items in the game’s database have renewed speculation among dedicated players.

The History of the Secret Cow Level

The Secret Cow Level originated as a fan-made hoax during the first Diablo game, but Blizzard cleverly turned it into an official Easter egg. In Diablo 2, the Secret Cow Level, or "Moo Moo Farm," became a fan-favorite bonus zone filled with hostile bovines wielding halberds. The joke continued in Diablo 3 with Whimsyshire, a pastel, rainbow-filled parody of the Cow Level, alongside the addition of "Not The Cow Level," a nod to the original in Diablo 2.

Blizzard has fueled the myth by including references to it in games like StarCraft and World of Warcraft, cementing the Secret Cow Level as an iconic part of their games.

Clues Leading to the Secret Cow Level in Diablo 4

Despite the lack of official confirmation, fans have found several hints in Diablo 4 suggesting that a version of the Secret Cow Level might be hidden in the game. The discovery of new items with suspicious similarities to those used to access Diablo 3’s secret realms has excited the community. According to a Diablo 4 secret-finding Discord, these items include:

Rusted Bardiche: This decayed weapon’s description mentions the scent of manure, a direct callback to the Diablo 3 Bovine Bardiche, which was key to opening a portal to Not The Cow Level.

Rusted Old Bell: The description of this bell, carved with the letter "W," is reminiscent of Wirt’s Bell, a key item used to access Whimsyshire in Diablo 3.

Crooked Staff: This cracked staff recalls the Staff of Herding, another Diablo 3 item used to open the portal to Whimsyshire.

Jabbering Gemstone: Similar to the Gibbering Gemstone from Diablo 3, this item is believed to be part of a secret puzzle.

Player Investigations:The Hunt for the Cow Level

Diablo 4 players have been actively exploring possible clues and areas in the game world, trying to piece together how to unlock the Secret Cow Level. A few notable discoveries include:

Forlorn Hovel: Players discovered this hidden location by killing cows in the open world, which allegedly drop items inspired by the keys to the original Secret Cow Level in Diablo 2.

Ox Statues: Some players have attempted ritualistic cleansings at mysterious ox statues scattered throughout the map, believing these statues hold a connection to the level.

Cow-Shaped Map Areas: Another theory involves a part of the Diablo 4 map that looks like a cow’s head. Some believe this area holds significance to unlocking the secret.

Is the Secret Cow Level Coming in Diablo 4?

While Blizzard continues to deny the existence of a Secret Cow Level in Diablo 4, the consistent pattern of clues makes it hard to dismiss the possibility. With the upcoming release of Diablo 4’s first DLC, Vessel of Hatred, on October 8, fans are hopeful that more pieces of the puzzle will be revealed. The DLC could contain new content or mechanics that finally open the gateway to the elusive Secret Cow Level.

Conclusion

The hunt for the Secret Cow Level in Diablo 4 has captured the attention of players, blending lore, nostalgia, and a love for Easter eggs. Whether or not the level exists, the joy of the chase has become an adventure in itself. With the discovery of intriguing items like the Rusted Bardiche and the community’s relentless search for clues, the mystery surrounding the Cow Level in Diablo 4 is far from over. As the game continues to evolve, players are certain to keep looking for new leads, hoping that the next piece of content will finally reveal the secret behind the Cow Level.