Plague

Plague is a versatile Patch 2.4 runeword in Diablo 2 Resurrected that combines poison damage amplification with resistance reduction. Created with Cham + Shael + Um in 3-socket swords, daggers, or claws, this ladder-introduced runeword excels at lowering enemy resistances while providing solid poison synergy for specialized builds.

Resistance Shredding Power

The standout feature of Plague is its 20% chance to cast level 12 Lower Resist when struck, reducing enemy fire, cold, lightning, and poison resistances by 57%. Combined with -23% to Enemy Poison Resistance and 25% chance to cast level 15 Poison Nova on striking, this runeword becomes a resistance-stripping powerhouse for elemental builds.

Best Uses & Builds

Act 5 Frenzy Mercenary

The most effective application is on the Act 5 Barbarian mercenary introduced in Patch 2.4. Made in a 1-handed sword, the aggressive Frenzy merc frequently triggers Lower Resist due to constant engagement with enemies. This creates a budget alternative to Infinity for builds that need resistance reduction, particularly poison-focused characters.

Poison Damage Builds

Rabies Druids benefit significantly from Plague when using an elite sword, as both the poison resistance reduction and Lower Resist proc enhance poison damage output. Poison Dagger Necromancers can utilize it in rare daggers, though most Necromancers prefer casting Lower Resist themselves at higher skill levels.

Assassin Applications

Whirlwind Assassins can pair Plague in a fast Runic Talon with Chaos to emphasize Venom skill damage. The +20% Increased Attack Speed and +220-320% Enhanced Damage provide solid physical damage alongside poison amplification.

Rune Cost & Alternatives

Cham is the second-rarest rune and cannot drop from Countess or Hellforge, making Plague expensive despite requiring only three runes. However, it's significantly cheaper than Infinity while providing similar resistance reduction capabilities through the Lower Resist proc, making it a viable budget option for elemental builds.

Best Bases

• Phase Blade - Ideal for Act 5 mercenaries due to indestructibility and fast attack speed, maximizing Lower Resist proc frequency
• Runic Talons - Best choice for Assassins, especially with +skills to Venom or other relevant assassin abilities. The fast attack speed helps trigger Poison Nova
• Elite Swords - Conquest Sword or Cryptic Sword work well for Rabies Druids needing the resistance reduction and enhanced damage