It's possible this book may be included in the Collector's Edition, however with the release date of the book set at November 15th, I almost don't see this happening. The reasoning behind this is simply because anyone who purchases the CE will not really be getting what they've paid for: Collectibles. This particular item would not really be considered a collectible, as it can just be attained by anyone, separate from the CE itself, prior to the game being released. Usually Blizzard tries to keep items in the CE unique, so those of us that prefer to purchase the CE, can feel like we're actually obtaining some awesome goodies.
Official Blizzard Quote:
In Blizzard Entertainment’s Diablo® and Diablo II, the recurring character of Deckard Cain delivered quests, accompanied the brave adventurer, and, as the last of the Horadrim, provided a link to the greater history of the world of Sanctuary. Ever mysterious during these appearances, Cain hinted at a larger story, providing snippets of it in his notebook. Diablo III: Book of Cain is Cain’s formal record of this greater tale—a dissertation on the lore of the Diablo universe, told by one who has witnessed and participated in some of the epic events that make up the eternal conflict between the High Heavens and the Burning Hells.
Designed as an “in-world” artifact from the Diablo universe, Diablo III: Book of Cain includes Cain’s revealing meditations, as well as dozens of sketches and color artworks depicting the angelic and demonic beings who wage constant war with one another.
For players of the eagerly anticipated Diablo III, this mysterious tome will provide a deeper understanding of the franchise and its storyline.
Thanks to Guarav for the tip!
(the other HP companion books are "Quidditch Through the Ages" and "the Monster Book of Monsters" if memory serves me)
The book sounds cool and all, but I doubt that it is in anyway linked to the release date of the game. If anything, I'd expect them to release the first book significantly before the title it was related to.. so maybe more like December 15th.
Sucks to be you then.
If they're going to go out on a limb and say I'm pretty sure it's canon based on how they're presenting it:
Official Blizzard Quote:
For players of the eagerly anticipated Diablo III, this mysterious tome will provide a deeper understanding of the franchise and its storyline.
Great find Guarav and Sixen! Thanks!
Also, it is 144 pages, so it is not something we have seen before.
Pre-ordered it!
I agree! However, the "Diablo 3" logo is a perfect example of branding, so it makes sense from a business perspective. Plus, it helps let people know that this is a newer book, not one of the old ones that a lot of people don't care about.
Also, Critter, I miss your old avatar ):
Hi guys, I posted about this book around 3am EST when I saw it at Amazon. More info in a few days. I can confirm -- Diablo III: Book of Cain is CANON.
The cover is not final. An updated version of the cover, and some neat stuff very soon.
I'm so glad its cannon ima get it
Not quite... While they certainly don't release things that will be in CE before it is released, they have definitely made things from a CE available seperately after it's release many times in the past... In fact, I think every art book, soundtrack, and behind-the-scenes (or cinematics in the case of earlier CE's) DVD have been released seperately from their respective CE's a little while after the game itself is released...