would it be easier if multiclassing just takes your feat slots and you gain 1 or 2 levels of 2nd class every 4 levels by spending a feat.
feats:
Multiclass initiate: requires level 4+
+1 ASI
gain 1st level features of a chosen class with current multiclass rules
Multiclass adept: requires level 8+, multiclass initiate
+1 ASI
gain 2nd and 3rd level features of a chosen class
multiclass expert: requires level 12+, multiclass adept
+ 1 ASI
gain 4th and 5th level features of a chosen class, do NOT gain 4th level feat feature.
multiclass master: requires level 16+, multiclass expert
gain 6th and 7th level features of a chosen class
multiclass grandmaster: requires level 19+, multiclass master
gain 8th, 9th and 10th level features of a chosen class. any feats gained cannot have requirements higher than level 8.
This would be way OP IMO.
No feat is worth a class level and no two feats are worth three class levels.
Consider:
1. Weapon Master gives you +1 Strength or Dex and mastery in one weapon you are already proficient in.
2. Moderately Armored gives proficiency in medium armor and a +1 dex or strength has a prerequisite that you are already proficient in light armor
Compare to:
Paladin Initiate: you get a casting level, 2 prepared spells, proficiency in all martial weapons, proficiency in light, moderate armor and shields, lay on hands, two weapon masteries in any weapons and a +1 in any ability you want
Fighter Initiate: Light, medium armor and shields, martial weapons, 3 weapon masteries, second Wind, +1 in any ability you want.
Cleric initiate: Proficiency in all armor and all weapons, +1 in any ability, a caster level, 3 Cantrips, 4 prepared spells.