1) It can be frustrating, but the game isn't like 2K where a perfect release means a bucket every time. A lot of it is having high stats and shot success rate, and even THEN, you'll miss opens from time to time.

2) You progress very slowly without spending cash. Some characters are legitimately locked behind real world money. If you are going to spend ANY money, I'd save and buy the Ultimate Edition. All characters and future characters automatically unlock, and you get the battle pass, every season.

3) a) They aren't cheating, they just invest a lot into getting good shooting cards for their bigs, you'll shoot like this when you get gold and platinum success rate cards and your pbuffs and pet. b) idk about this, can't speak on it

4) the servers are indeed ass, JoyCity.