The search for "diabdat.mpq" in a 2021 context typically refers to users trying to run the original Diablo (1996)
Attribution and legal note:
Shareware Alternative: If you don't own the full game, you can use spawn.mpq from the shareware version to play the first two levels. How to Use It with DevilutionX (2021 Standard) diablo 1 diabdatmpq 2021
Multi-Platform Play: The ability to run the original game on Linux, macOS, Android, and even the Nintendo 3DS. The search for "diabdat
Portability: By 2021, the community standardized using this file to port Diablo to nearly every platform imaginable, including Android, Nintendo Switch, and web browsers. Major 2021 Developments Major 2021 Developments The 2021 Context: Source Ports
Why are we talking about a 1996 file in 2021? Because the way we interact with diabdat.mpq has changed.
Hellfire Expansion: If you are playing the Hellfire expansion, you will also need hellfire.mpq, hfmonk.mpq, hfvice.mpq, and hfmusic.mpq.