Originally Posted by Tuco
Personally? As I argued at several points in that very same thread I'm completely AGAINST seeing enemy and character levels.
It doesn't do any favor for immersion and if it turns out to be misleading information (see the red dragon example) is even more harmful than anything.
I'm afraid it's just ANOTHER vestigial leftover from DOS 1 and 2, where you were basically led to "follow the breadcrumbs path" of enemy levels "to know you were in the right place for your level", which is strongly against the type of vibe a D&D adventure should give.

Some indicator for danger is useful though. For people who recognize monsters or worn equpment, sure it is unnecessary. But someone new or even not well versed? That person could easily mistake an encounter kill themselves. Which lessens their fun.
To this day I am annoyed by Tarnesh from BG1. You are *told* to go to the Friendly Arm Inn immedeatly and when you do that guy is waiting for you. A level 5 mage who can, depending on your class, kill you. He will cast Horror, Mirror Image and then 3 magic missiles targeted at the mc. When Charname dies, it is game over.
Sure you have an autosafe a short while ago, but it is still unfair and not fun.

It is useful to have direction and a vague idea of what expects you. Give the player surprises, maybe even nasty ones, but do not keep them completly blind.