Final Fantasy II famously eschews traditional experience points and levels. Instead, your characters grow based on their actions in battle. HP increases when a character takes damage (but doesn't die), and MP increases when a character casts spells. Strength improves by attacking, Spirit by casting healing/support magic, and Intelligence by casting offensive magic. Agility increases by taking turns in battle, and Evasion by successfully dodging attacks. Weapon skills (Sword, Axe, Bow, etc.) improve by using that weapon type, and Magic skills (Black Magic, White Magic) improve by casting spells from that school. This system encourages diverse actions and strategic combat choices to build your characters effectively. For example, to increase a character's HP quickly, have them defend while taking hits from weaker enemies.
