Could you elaborate. Lots of games, including web2 games, use this same approach. Typically the second tier is completely hidden though and is only available via invite for people like influencers.
I thought it would be better to make the 2nd tier public and accessible to anyone who shows they deserve it.
After reading this over a few times it might not be 2 tier that I'm thinking. When I heard 2 tier I was liking level 1 5% affiliate commissions and then anyone your affiliates bring on you'd earn 10% commission on for example. That's what I think of when I hear 2 tier affiliate program which is a big no no. But from how I'm reading this it's the same single layer but if you hit the standards you're entitled to higher rewards. In that case it should be fine.
I just wonder why the splinterlands team always said no to commissions on DEC though and if that some how leaves the game open for possible attacks from law enforcement in the future or some type of exploit.