Tempering System in Diablo 2 Spelunking

Overview

The Tempering System in Diablo 2 Spelunking enhances items using runes, blending strategy and chance for a unique enhancement experience.

The Basics of Tempering

To temper an item, such as Battle Boots, you combine it with a rune in the cube. Runes range from 1 to 33, from El to Zod, each reflecting different enhancement levels.

Understanding Stat Tiers

The system features stat tiers from 1 to 18. The tier an item lands on after tempering is determined by a unique three-dice roll mechanism.

Dice Roll Mechanism

• First Dice (Fixed Range): Rolls a number between 1 and 6, setting a base for enhancement.
• Second Dice (Rune-Dependent): Rolls a number from 0 to 6. Higher-tier runes like Zod increase the probability of rolling higher numbers, but the increase is not linear – meaning lower-tier runes can still yield high rolls.
• Third Dice (Varied Probabilities): Also rolls between 0 and 6. Similar to the second dice, but with slightly different probabilities, adding an extra layer of unpredictability.
• Sum Total: The total of these three rolls determines the potential stat tier for the item.

Assigning Stats

• Tier Matching: The total roll is matched to available stat tiers for the item.
• Stat Allocation: Stats are then assigned to the item. Higher roll totals generally give better stats, but the system allows for the possibility of exceptional enhancements at any rune tier.

Mechanics for Enthusiasts

• Rune Tier Influence: Higher-tier runes like Zod slightly increase the chances of rolling high numbers. However, the difference isn't overwhelming – lower-tier runes like El still have a significant chance to yield excellent stats.
• Stat Distribution Nuance: The stat distribution favors higher roll totals, but it's not strictly linear. This non-linear distribution means that every tempering session holds potential surprises, with a variety of outcomes possible.

Conclusion

The Tempering System in Diablo 2 Spelunking offers a nuanced balance between randomness and strategy, catering to various playstyles and strategies. Whether you’re experimenting casually or aiming for the best possible outcome, the system provides a unique and engaging experience with every attempt.

An interesting aspect of the tempering mechanics is the marginal difference in rolling an 18 between rune tiers. For example, using a Zod rune yields only about a 0.03% higher chance of rolling an 18 compared to an El rune, subtly emphasizing the balanced nature of the system.

Simulation Results

The following table showcases results from simulated runs, comparing the chances of rolling an 18 and rolling 12 or higher with each rune:

Rune	Roll 18 (out of 15000)	Roll 12 or higher (out of 15000)	Roll 8 or higher (out of 15000)
El	1	29	1277
Eld	0	38	1444
Tir	0	33	1376
Nef	2	49	1559
Eth	1	63	1671
Ith	1	43	1708
Tal	2	90	1846
Ral	3	80	1827
Ort	2	86	1978
Thul	3	100	2096
Amn	0	115	2149
Sol	3	134	2246
Shael	2	150	2389
Dol	2	154	2429
Hel	1	175	2463
Io	3	171	2483
Lum	6	189	2660
Ko	2	229	2914
Fal	4	249	2851
Lem	4	262	2970
Pul	2	266	3152
Um	7	276	3182
Mal	7	307	3311
Ist	7	321	3257
Gul	3	326	3428
Vex	4	398	3558
Ohm	6	374	3500
Lo	9	408	3700
Sur	9	453	3811
Ber	8	441	3966
Jah	15	494	3923
Cham	7	486	4088
Zod	5	532	4195

These results demonstrate that lower-tier runes like El can still be effective, making every tempering attempt a strategic decision.