Never catch up isn't really true, it depends on the game. I prefer perma-death games, and often you see a situation where you will reach max levels in the game in one month or less if you work really hard or have expert assistance. Of course item collecting might take a year if your guild doesn't equip you, and skill building might take a life time. Wow had to do what they do to build a never ending money sapping treadmill, but it isn't the only way.