if it's such a load of crap? I mean, it doesn't demonstrate any skill, it's not fun, and it's incredibly limiting to just left-click and rely on RNG...

It tests game knowledge and item procurement, as well as the amount of money or time one is spending. It also stimulates the economy. Without melee tournaments, those eth rep melee weapons that sell for 10k+ fg wouldn't have buyers.

There are several reasons why it is encouraged and participated in.

Yes, I actually agree with what you're saying. But what I mean is that melee duels themselves are rubbish... I don't understand why there are so many posts about melee and so few about real PvP (lately).

I love melee duels. I find theyre fun. Maybe its you that is wrong?

It's where people with busy life and big wallet can still play video games.

Have you ever tried real PvP? GM of course...

Yes. And I prefer Melee, even if I like all sorts of PVP.

bc noob rather cross their eyes and hold shift

Are you telling me you prefer a duel where all you do is hold down the left click to one where you put into practice many of the technical skills that exist, like chainlock, C/T, using running to dodge...? Or are you just trying to justify the huge expense of starting with that crap melee duels?

to be fair d2r pvp is like 1 step above melee but you hold tele instead and spam cause immunity frames >>>>