Horizontal progression in MMOs can be challenging when compared to vertical progression.Horizontal progression has its limitations despite being beneficial in games.Final Fantasy XI is used as an example of a game with prolonged horizontal progression.In FFXI, gear sidegrades often didn't offer significant benefits, leading to limited choices.Having multiple options in horizontal progression can lead to one clear optimal choice.Players tend to gravitate towards the best choices, making some content redundant.Horizontal progression complements vertical progression but cannot replace it entirely in MMOs.A balance of getting stronger over time and acquiring new meaningful options is essential for progression.Designing MMO progression requires a careful mix of power increase and diversified choices.Progression in MMOs is not just about raising a single number; it involves complex decision-making.