Competitive features are powerful engagement drivers, and the data proves it. Games with visible leaderboards see 40% higher daily active user rates compared to those without. But here's what's interesting: global leaderboards can actually demotivate average players. The sweet spot is tiered or friend-based rankings where players compete against similar skill levels. Players in the top 10% check leaderboards 3x more frequently than others, while bottom 25% players often ignore them entirely. Weekly reset leaderboards with rewards maintain engagement better than permanent rankings. We've also found that displaying "climb potential" (you're 3 wins from rank 50!) increases play sessions by 18%. What leaderboard structures work best for your game? Have you experimented with seasonal rankings or ELO-style matchmaking?