Accidental Progression Is Still Progression

We want players to feel like they are getting stronger over the course of the game, but increasing their power level as a function of time alone feels unearned. Players want progression to feel like a reward for what they are doing, whether it is by gaining experience through combat or figuring out new ways to use their abilities. But challenge is not actually a prerequisite to make progression feel earned; the only real requirement is that progression be causally linked to player action, even if only accidentally.

MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas) are perhaps the best example of this. In MOBAs, you gain most of your experience and gold by farming "creeps," weak NPCs that march across the map toward your base. In some MOBAs, you don't even need to be responsible for a creep's death to benefit; as long as you are nearby you will collect the experience. Some of the damage dealt to them is accidental, collateral damage from your character's area of effect abilities, and even when you are targeting them it tends to be a mindless and habitual action while your attention is focused on your lane opponent.

Mechs versus Minions, a board game set in the universe of League of Legends, translates this dynamic of accidental experience collection into the medium of tabletop games by featuring hordes of extremely fragile minions to kill for experience. These minions will die to any amount of damage or even just a player walking over them, and pose very little threat. Over the course of the game, players will often accidentally kill numerous minions while executing their movement programs, constantly building up experience towards level ups and new ability unlocks without even really meaning to. But since it occurs as a result of action, it feels earned.

Progression does not require elaborate challenges to justify. Players like getting stronger, and as long as you have some excuse for why they are earning it they will be satisfied. Accidental progression feels just as good as deliberate progression.