Pathstones

Pathstones are a type of mystical artifact found in the Diablo video game series, specifically introduced in Diablo II: Lord of Destruction. They serve as key items that players must collect to progress through certain quests and unlock new areas. Pathstones are typically found after defeating a specific boss or completing a challenging encounter.

Once acquired, a Pathstone is usually used at a specific altar or portal within the game world. Activating the Pathstone can trigger events such as opening a portal to a new zone, summoning a boss, or advancing a questline. The most prominent example is the "Hellforge" Pathstone, which is crucial for progressing through the game's Act IV.

The lore behind Pathstones suggests they are fragments of ancient power, imbued with the ability to manipulate the fabric of reality or open gateways between dimensions. Their existence is often tied to the overarching narrative of the Diablo universe, involving the eternal conflict between the forces of Heaven and Hell. While not unique items in the sense of having randomized stats, they are essential quest items that players cannot typically trade or lose, ensuring their progression through the game. Their function is primarily narrative and mechanical, serving as gatekeepers to further gameplay.