How I avoid this problem (and enjoy D3, very much): 1. Play hardcore. This instantly transforms the entire point of the game from "get the best gear" to "stay

How I avoid this problem (and enjoy D3, very much): 1. Play hardcore. This instantly transforms the entire point of the game from "get the best gear" to "stay alive", though of course awesome gear is still fun because it helps you stay alive, and squish monsters faster. 2. Don't use the Auction House. Sure, this means I won't be competitive (level for level) with players who do, and I probably won't ever be able to play Inferno, but I play mostly single player or with friends who use similar rules. A lot of people do seem to love the gear grind of D2, and that's fine for them, but I'd much rather play it in the vein of a classic roguelike.