It actually has to do with game designers using the way the human brain's reward system works to get more people hooked than would be otherwise.
As I understand it, making quick progress when starting a new endeavor, especially when someone is completely new to a game or hobby, makes someone far more likely to continue with it. Once someone has made a habit of doing something, they don't need as many rewards to continue, and they are more willing to wait for longer and longer times, as long as the rewards they do get increase in size too (better loot, more in game money, access to new maps, etc).
When done well, it adds to an already enjoyable experience. Done poorly, and it's a cheap trick to get new players hooked and long time players to stay. It might also be paired with smaller, semi-random rewards that make things like gambling so addictive.
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As I understand it, making quick progress when starting a new endeavor, especially when someone is completely new to a game or hobby, makes someone far more likely to continue with it. Once someone has made a habit of doing something, they don't need as many rewards to continue, and they are more willing to wait for longer and longer times, as long as the rewards they do get increase in size too (better loot, more in game money, access to new maps, etc).
When done well, it adds to an already enjoyable experience. Done poorly, and it's a cheap trick to get new players hooked and long time players to stay. It might also be paired with smaller, semi-random rewards that make things like gambling so addictive.