What if? Levels...

[paradox42]

Given that my primary homebrew features technology as well as magic, as soon as I saw references to magic as "valences" in Sepulchrave's Story Hour I started using it in my own game. Given that it makes magic sound pseudoscientific, it's perfect for the setting. Thanks Sep!

 

[Andor]

Plus, how does the common man tell a 5th level Wizard apart from a 6th level Sorcerer, or a Fighter apart from a Warrior?

The common man doesn't need to. He just sees a guy who can fly or who has a flamey sword and nods and does what ever they say.

My point is, I suppose, that levels, for most classes if not all, are both too granular and too visibly different from each other to not be noticed in game. How the heck else do you explain transformative classes like the Dragon Disciple or Ooze Master? "Hey Ted. How was the seminar?" "Great! Now I can wobble like jello. See?" "That's revolting Ted."