Bonustasoja

Bonustasoja is a Finnish term used to describe bonus levels or tiers within gamified systems. It denotes additional progression stages that exist beyond the standard track, typically offering enhanced challenges or rewards. The term is used in video games, mobile apps, and in loyalty programs or educational platforms that employ game-like mechanics.

Etymology: The word combines bonus from English and taso from Finnish meaning "level" or "tier," with the plural suffix -ja; bonustasoja literally means "bonus levels."

Usage in games and apps: Bonustasoja are unlocked by meeting conditions such as completing tasks, achieving high scores, or accumulating points. They may provide extra experience points, special items, cosmetic skins, or access to exclusive content, and sometimes operate under different progression curves or time-limited events.

Usage in loyalty programs and education: In loyalty schemes, bonustasoja can grant extra reward points, status, or perks after crossing expenditure thresholds or milestones. In educational platforms, they can represent optional assignments or accelerated paths that yield extra credit or recognition.

Design and implications: Designers weigh the added engagement against complexity and balance. Potential issues include reward devaluation if too easy to obtain, paywall concerns, or confusion about how to access bonustasoja. Clear criteria and transparent progression help maintain motivation.

See also: gamification, achievement system, loyalty program, progression system, unlockable content.