Epsilon Theta said:So lets dive into Semantics. What is a level? It is a quantifiable position on a real or imaginary scale. Lets say that the scale we use here is XP. While I can't remember the real figures, lets say you get some reward every 1000 XP points. So if you have 5000 of those, you have access to 5 rewards. Your level is 5000 as denoted by the scale. While there is no label that abstracts the 5000 XP into the notion of level 5 or the Lieutenant rank, it is exactly the same mechanic. Furthermore, the exact same Semantic context applies to both scenarios.
I believe they already carry Hidden Requirement. What I wanted to convey is the method by which you can meet the requirement, namely levelling.
Edit: As an example, take EGO points in Defiance. There is no XP systems and points are awarded by blocks of 4 or 10 if I remember correctly depending on the deed you have done. Still, the game talks about EGO level.
Well that is that game. From what I have seen no-one calls it a level hence it is called Unlocks.
Also none of the "rewards" quantify any advantage over some with less XP as the only gains are superficial and do not make your character more effective or more a force to reckon. Unlike say CoD has perks and Battlefield has weapons. In further reference to sandbox games Prototype while single player levelling with XP allows you to purchase new abilities and same said with newer titles like Infamous Second Son.
Taken from the wiki:
"Red Faction: Guerrilla has an extensive multiplayer, with 4 types, 7 game modes, 21 maps, 18 weapons, 10 backpacks, 16 hidden challenges and
125 unlockables."
They are only referred to again as unlocks as because earlier stated they are simply unlocks not gaining any superiority or rank above another person. No one is distinguishable from the other unlike Gears of War 3, CoD, Battlefield, Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, GTA, Red Dead and so forth.
Taken from wikipedia:
"As the player engages in more matches, they gain experience points that will grant them bonuses; most of which take the form of superficial bonuses such as the option to add more features to character models or altering aspects of their player emblem, and have no impact on the game."
Pretty much sums it up and hopefully makes my POV clearer.