There is no legit reason to not have level potions. As you said, it allows players to be on the same playing field as other, more seasoned players. People worry about the degradation of player competence but I am not worried about it. I normally have to queue up with under-achievers on a daily basis to get my daily expert bonus and complete my weekly Alex normal and weeping city clears. My only saving grace is my savage static that loves to wipe 8 times on A11s but one shot a12s lol.

And bswpayton, I've said this before in your other thread, utilize party finder instead of duty finder to do things sync'd. In the description, ensure that potential party members know it is sync'd. Your server may surprise you with people joining for laughs and the experience. Though I wouldn't hold your breathe cause even PF could take a long time to fill.