The Best Inventory Systems in RPGs

A well-designed inventory system can make or break an RPG experience. While some games burden players with clunky menus and endless scrolling, others strike the perfect balance between realism and convenience. The best systems encourage strategic decision-making without overwhelming the player. Here are some of the most exceptional inventory systems in RPG history.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Organized Realism

CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher 3 offers an inventory that feels immersive yet practical. Items are neatly categorized into weapons, armor, alchemy ingredients, and crafting materials, making it easy to find what you need. The weight system prevents hoarding without being overly punishing, and the auto-sort feature keeps clutter to a minimum. The inclusion of a separate saddlebag for Geralt’s horse, Roach, adds a touch of realism while expanding storage options.

Divinity: Original Sin 2 – Deep and Customizable

Larian Studios’ Divinity: Original Sin 2 features one of the most flexible inventory systems in RPGs. Players can sort items by type, value, or weight, and even create custom bags to group similar items (e.g., a “Potions Pouch” or “Scroll Case”). The ability to share inventory among party members encourages teamwork, and the intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes managing loot a breeze.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Simple but Effective

Skyrim’s inventory system is straightforward but highly functional. Items are displayed with clear icons, and the favorites menu allows quick access to frequently used gear. While the weight limit can be restrictive early on, perks and enchantments eventually ease the burden. Mods have since expanded its capabilities, but even the vanilla system remains one of Bethesda’s most user-friendly designs.

Diablo II – The Gold Standard for Loot Management

Blizzard’s Diablo II set the benchmark for inventory management in action RPGs. The grid-based system forces players to carefully arrange items, creating a satisfying puzzle-like challenge. Limited space means prioritizing valuable loot, and the shared stash (introduced in Resurrected) allows for seamless item transfers between characters.

Dark Souls – Minimalist and Meaningful

FromSoftware’s Dark Souls takes a minimalist approach—players don’t juggle weight limits, but equipped items directly impact stamina and mobility. The quick-select menu ensures smooth combat transitions, and the attunement system for spells encourages thoughtful loadout choices. By keeping inventory simple, the game maintains its focus on skill and strategy.

Final Thoughts

The best inventory systems enhance gameplay rather than hinder it. Whether through deep customization (Divinity: Original Sin 2), immersive realism (The Witcher 3), or elegant simplicity (Dark Souls), these RPGs prove that smart design keeps players engaged—instead of frustrated—when managing their virtual belongings.