Following the recent announcement that Diablo III's beta could kick off this summer, Blizzard has introduced the game's followers system:

"In Diablo III, going it alone is a valid option... but it’s not always the safest one. Having a brave companion at your side might not save you from the tearing claws of your enemies, but it can’t hurt to improve your odds. Fortunately, there are others in Sanctuary willing to risk life and limb to strike out at the nightmares sweeping the land - non-player characters that we call followers who’ll accompany you on your journey and join you into battle."

Check out the followers page for more details on the system, and watch the video below to see Kormac the Templar, Lyndon the Scoundrel, and Eirena the Enchantress in action.