Why is any of this system news to people? "I'd like to be able to decide for myself versus having no choice in the matter." Uh, when you go to a new zone and get a new weapon better than your last, that's deciding for yourself? Sounds to me like you still have no choice but to upgrade to the better weapon. MMOs and RPGs in general are all about this type of gameplay, if you don't like it, get out and stop complaining. I'm happy to see what new crazy gear comes with each raid / expansion and move on to new loot.