Basically, here's how it works. You create a character. Clerics heal people, Ogres fight, Rogues sneak around and kill stuff, you get the idea. Then, either by yourself, or to be more efficient, grouping with others who have the skills you lack, you go out and kill every virtual monster you can. Dead monsters equal experience.
Experience equals levels.
Literally hundreds of incredibly detailed zones and areas have been created to challenge players throughout their journey. An entire economy is in place, with players using virtual money acquired by slaying the bad guys to buy and sell necessary gear and items that will improve their characters' performances. One of the more depressing things a player can do is see how many hours they have been logged on to the game. Oftentimes, the response is measured in months. So heed the warning of your friendly columnist, and please never start to play this or any similar online games.