Unlike in Diablo II, where you could turn 'hostile' on other players in PvE game, Diablo III does not feature non-consensual PvP. Instead, PvP will be separate from the PvE portion of the game, compartmentalised into specific dueling arenas, which allows PvP to take place in an entirely regulated environment.

The game will use a match-making system similar to the one employed in StarCraft II, and will attempt to match people based on skill, though it will also be possible to create custom games.

So far, it's understood that the style of game type will mirror team deathmatch modes found in other multiplayer games, rather than a 'last man standing' set-up, so the outcome of matches is based on the team's overall kill count.