I guess the difference is that in some games, you are pitted against other players at the same "experience" level - to level the playing field. So that very exp

I guess the difference is that in some games, you are pitted against other players at the same "experience" level - to level the playing field. So that very experienced players aren't able to just kill all the new players immediately. However, if you have a player that has bought their way in, they will have a low experience level, but resources that are better matched against higher levels. So, if you don't buy in, you will be at a severe disadvantage.