I’m really passionate about this topic because even though I’m about to break 3,000 hours play time in GD, I am still realizing that I know nothing.
I could go on and on about this game, it’s my favorite game and it offers so much. I think my perspective might help you find your place in the game as well because I 110% identify with your original statements at earlier points in my experiences on this journey.
For me, even at 3,000 hours in, the endgame is not what I love. My favorite part of this game is levelling from level 20 to level 75, in the main campaign, not in shattered realm or crucible, where the top players compete for the meta spotlight.
As you read and interact more and more on these forums here, you’ll discover some really inspiring players who have patterns of not only sharing creative and interesting builds, but also impacting really fun tidbits.
@MikeHeydon created an Awesome thread based around a unique alternate playstyle, where you create a classless character based off of NPC lore from the game.
@Nery helped me to begin comprehending how to tweak builds encroaching on the endgame, and he’s always posting really cool builds.
@Contragor is a legendary player who managed to beat the game on Ultimate difficulty in Hardcore using a CLASSLESS character, and also frequently posts really inspiring builds
@Stupid_Dragon often imparts lots of cool information and builds as well. The latest installation of which included a tidbit that the nightblade skill Amarasta’s Blade Burst can be used with ranged attacks! I had no idea, even at 3,000 hours of gameplay! And so I realize again I still know nothing.
There are so many awesome people in these forums who will help you find a way, whenever you have questions. I am on public transportation in a cramped train and its hotter than satan’s bathtub in here I gotta put this phone away I can barely concentrate, but when I get home I’ll link some of the most inspiring builds that others made and shared which really encouraged my creative journey so far. Probably my favorite of which is a support Deceiver (Inquisitor/Occultist), designed as a healer/support build- yes! Such a thing DOES exist, and it is awesome!