reluskey:
This game is ludicrious and wildly inconsistent. How are they able to advertise it as a "Free" site? Also there is no way to upgrade your equipment, courses and no help for users....it's a joke and the people behind it know it better than any users.
Point by point
1, Yes the starter clubs are inconsistent, I used them for a year before I upgraded, and it is still possible to shoot sub par rounds with them (I made it to masters with them - only a driver upgrade earned by free credits). Sure there can be inconistency even with good clubs, much like playing real golf.
2. You can play without spending a cent, see #1
3. There is a pro shop, where you can upgrade your equipment. If you do not wish to pay, earn credits via Videos, Surveys etc (and there are many more chances to do so for players in the US), again see #1
4. Did you read the FAQ and learn how to play, see -----------> and then play regularly and practice a lot.
5. If you don;t like the game, find another golf game, I think you may well change your mind.