Rift

Rift is a specialized runeword in Diablo 2 Resurrected that transforms melee combat into a magical spectacle. Created with Hel + Ko + Lem + Gul in 4-socket polearms or scepters, this unique weapon abandons physical damage entirely in favor of devastating elemental procs and raw magic damage.

Elemental Chaos Unleashed

Rift's defining feature is its dual proc system: 20% Chance to Cast Level 16 Tornado on Striking and 16% Chance to Cast Level 21 Frozen Orb on Attack. The distinction between "on striking" versus "on attack" is crucial—Frozen Orb triggers even on missed attacks, making it exceptionally reliable with fast attack speeds. The runeword adds 160-250 Magic Damage and 60-180 Fire Damage, creating a multi-element assault that bypasses most immunities.

The Riftsin Phenomenon

This runeword is the cornerstone of the famous Riftsin build, where Assassins use Dragon Talon to generate Frozen Orbs at blistering speeds. Dragon Talon reaches 3 frames per attack at optimal breakpoints—the fastest melee attack in the game—triggering waves of icy orbs across the battlefield. Combined with Death Sentry traps and boosted by cold damage gear like Nightwing's Veil and Head Hunter's Glory with Cold Facets, the Riftsin deals four damage types simultaneously.

Best Bases and Gear

Optimal Base Choice

• War Scepter - The preferred base with -10 attack speed and minimal stat requirements, maximizing proc frequency
• Cryptic Axe - Alternative polearm option for Barbarians or Paladins seeking longer reach

Supporting Equipment

Riftsin builds stack +Cold Damage and -Enemy Cold Resistance through items like Infinity for the mercenary, multiple Cold Facets in Head Hunter's Glory, and Nightwing's Veil. Dracul's Grasp gloves provide life sustain, while Gore Rider boots add crushing blow for hybrid damage.

Strengths and Limitations

Rift excels in low player count games (/players 1-3) where its proc damage scales effectively. The 38% Damage Taken Goes to Mana provides excellent sustain, while 75% Extra Gold and +5-10 to All Attributes offer practical bonuses. The -20% Requirements makes it accessible earlier. However, Rift struggles in high player count games due to limited damage scaling beyond cold skill bonuses. The build's effectiveness depends heavily on attack speed and complementary cold damage stacking.

Rune Availability

With Gul as the highest rune required, Rift sits in affordable mid-tier territory. All runes can be farmed from Hell Countess (with some luck and cubing), Travincal Council, or Lower Kurast. The runeword was originally ladder-only but became available in non-ladder after Patch 2.4 in D2R, making it accessible to all players seeking a unique, proc-focused playstyle.