I've been playing this game since its inception and I can say with all honesty it definitely is a pay to win game. Such a shame because I can't really enjoy mobile games anymore since most have turned to the "gotcha" bait system. Here's a suggestion...have the player choose whether he wants to be f2p or p2p. Set up servers specifically for f2p players so that way its a more even playing field or allow some spending and if the person blows past the cap then send them to the p2p servers.