Grinding

Grinding, in general game terms, insinuates systems set up within a game that require the player to work for a very long time for minimal payment. A good example of grinding (or "a grind") is reaching level 99 in Diablo II. The bonuses between the last ten levels were not very good in comparison to the ludicrous amounts of time it would take to reach the maximum level. It is often viewed as not worth it.

Grinding for levels is only one aspect; players in games also grind for things such as gear and items, reputation (if that game has factions), prestige or other vanity items/titles.

Grinding is generally frowned upon, particularly when the benefit from doing so is null, or if it is required of the player to grind in order to advance in the game.

More reference terms.