Finally someone gets it.
The features in 2.1 just would not work right in offline environment. I really don't understand the backlash here. You wouldn't want a ladder system on console if 90% of the players will run around with duped/hacked weapons.
Ladders are confirmed not coming on consoles, but all the other 2.1 features, like the harder tiered Rifts, legendary gems, new rift environment, new Legendaries etc. could absolutely work offline.
And again, who gives a crap if other people are hacking their own game, just don't play with them. Let them ruin it for themselves.