I've never felt like this game was a pyramid, although time spent in the game is typically rewarded as time advances. I don't mind at all trading my income for entertainment and investment, and I recognize that I prioritize the first over the second. That's why I spend so much more of my investment money on cards instead of tokens!
You are correct, not pyramid in classic sense. In a pyramid scheme the earlier players make money of newer players. Here the earlier (not OGs, but early enough) and highly invested players bankroll the game for new players :)
We can call it inverted pyramid! :)
I can't wait to see the era of Splinterlands when Land is at full capacity and SPS print is finished. SPSDAO will have to taper rewards and schedule buybacks, while paying out of the budget from pack sales and LP fees. Glorious system for the future!