Action RPGs have evolved dramatically over the last decade, and with few exceptions, loot filters are now industry standard. Path of Exile revolutionized the genre not only with its depth but also with a customizable loot filter system that allowed players to shape their experience. Last Epoch doubled down by offering an extremely intuitive, in-game filter editor. Even smaller indie ARPGs include the feature because it’s so vital to the modern loot hunt.

Diablo 4 Items, despite being the biggest and most polished ARPG on the market, has somehow missed this crucial innovation.

As drops get more complex, and as item crafting (tempering, masterworking) demands more precision, players need tools to efficiently manage the flood of incoming gear. Diablo 4’s current approach—dropping everything on the ground and expecting players to inspect manually—feels outdated.

Compare it to Path of Exile’s tiered highlight system. PoE players can instantly identify high-tier drops, ignore trash, and customize colors, sounds, and visibility. This transforms the endgame into a laser-focused hunt.

Last Epoch goes even further with its user-friendly interface. Players can filter by affix, drop type, rarity, or roll quality. The system evolves with your needs, making it not just a QoL feature but a core gameplay tool.

Diablo 4 risks appearing archaic in comparison. Without filters, it slows players down instead of empowering them. And in a world where ARPG players expect precision, customization, and efficiency, this absence becomes more glaring with every update.

For D4 Items to reclaim its position as genre leader, it must adopt the standards players have come to expect. The game already has brilliant combat, gorgeous environments, and satisfying class design. A robust loot filter system would push it into the realm of modern excellence.