Blizzard’s long-awaited follow-up to 2012’s Diablo 3 is finally with us. Although its reception has been generally positive, the demon-slaying, loot-sweeping RPG may not quite scratch your itch. If you’re looking for viable alternatives, look no further. There’s a whole world of loot-focused action-RPGs out there. Here are just a few.
Path of Exile
You should consider Path of Exile as Diablo’s main competitor. For hardcore players, Grinding Gear Game’s free-to-play title offers exactly what Diablo doesn’t. Deep, dynamic character-building options, a focused action-RPG experience, plenty of loot, and, most importantly, plenty of things to obliterate. While its complex systems may seem intimidating at first, they are immensely deep and rewarding, providing endless ways to play. Path of Exile 2 is just around the corner, so there’s no better time to jump in.
Lost Ark
Lost Ark may be more of an MMO than Diablo IV or Path of Exile, but it still firmly scratches that same loot-hoarding itch. This free-to-play South Korean title, which cost a staggering $85 million to develop, is worth checking out if you’re looking for satisfying ARPG combat and progression. It’s a particularly systems-heavy game, which may put people off those of you looking for a more streamlined experience, but Lost Ark is worth checking out.
Grim Dawn
Another excellent alternative to Diablo IV comes from Crate Entertainment’s Grim Dawn. This deep and rich ARPG offers a compelling, streamlined experience with plenty of character-building options. Although it’s a decidedly more humble and indie experience than Diablo 4 or Lost Ark, it excels at what it does. You’ll never run out of beasts to slay and loot to gather in this quality RPG. Join the dedicated following of players who can’t speak highly enough about this underrated title.
Last Epoch
Although still in Early Access, Last Epoch is a rich and fully formed experience. With multiplayer, crafting, and more on the way, this is looking like a very strong competitor. The wealth and variety of the classes, builds, and gameplay styles, as well as the huge amount of enemies and environments, make this a hefty RPG to get lost in. Don’t let its Early Access status put you off, this is not one to overlook.
Titan Quest
If you’re sick of all the modern MMO elements that clog up many ARPGs, look no further than 2006’s Titan Quest. This classic of the genre was one of the first great titles to follow in the footsteps of Diablo II. Providing a wealth of classes and build options, satisfying combat, and loot in spades, Titan Quest still holds up 17 years later. Meanwhile, the mythological setting offers a unique change of pace from the typical high fantasy setting. Don’t miss out! The Anniversary Edition currently on Steam offers a modernised way to experience this beloved title.
Diablo II Resurrected
Still held as the unbeaten giant of the genre by many, Diablo II remains a thoroughly enjoyable experience two decades on. The recently released Diablo II Resurrected provides the perfect remastered way to dive into this beloved classic. You’ll find the monster-slaying, loot-gathering genre fully formed here, despite its age, offering an experience that matches any other on this list. The wealth of classes, builds, monsters, and maps make this one to get lost in.
What are your thoughts on Diablo 4? Have you played any of these titles? What did we miss? Let us know in the comments!
