What's your preferred game mechanic for getting stronger?

[Scorpion]

What is your preferred game mechanic for gaining strength in your favorite games, such as experience points, gear upgrades, or skill trees? How do these mechanics influence your overall gameplay experience and strategy? Do you find enjoyment in grinding for XP, or do you prefer acquiring gear through exploration and quests?

[killamch89]

I've always been partial to skill trees that allow for true specialization rather than just stat increases. Games like Path of Exile or Skyrim where you can create wildly different character builds based on your choices feel more rewarding than simple level-up systems