I think that if we really want this to have a role playing aspect, character development needs to go beyond how many levels you have and what factions like you.

I've said it before, but get the players INVOLVED in the storyline.
Have missions that are only given once (to a number of players within a certain amount of time), as part of a plot episode. Give people special access based on how they do comparatively to other pilots. Most rescues... whatever.

Levels don't mean a whole lot in this game. But the idea behind them, that a player is gaining notoreity is very attractive to most players.

I, in fact, need to be more careful, cuz its very easy for your ego to run away with your accomplishments, and ignore present faults and failures.