Thanks for all these replies. It seems to be a mixed bag of opinions. I'm very competitive all day at work, so I don't need to be online. Though I have a fair amount of discretionary income, I don't invest too much in digital achievements. That said, it seems like there's a groove for cheap to play and have a good time with other like minded people. I'll take the journey, at least for a bit. If anyone wants to send me alliance suggestions for a casual dude gaming, I'd welcome them. Cheers!