These kind of topics keep coming back and that's for a reason. I completely agree with the overall feeling that the balls are way too expensive. That's why I choose to not buy them and play the free balls only. Everyone has the choice to do the same.
In the meantime I gather credits for my future equipment (see http://www.wgt.com/forums/p/139440/928157.aspx#928157 if interested in my plans) and while I'm at it pick up some sleeves of better balls in some of my CC tourneys, so when I have my desired equipment I can try the real difference between the free ball and the credits costing balls.
I'm not looking for the best scores ever made, I'm looking for fun. Feeling ripped off takes away from the fun, but nobody puts a gun to my head, forcing me to buy balls...
Now, about the best scores ever made... I wonder if some legendary players from the past (about whom you can read on this forum) have "some" more computer skills than average..... and then it's not mouse clicking skills I am talking about.
Reading into the subject of cheating I understand this game is potentially rather vulnerable to that and there's not much proof of WGT having this under control. So probably still a lot of cheaters around this game. PLS correct me if I'm wrong.
So, buying balls to be able to compete in ready go's means you probably are being ripped off 3 times. Balls are too expensive - wear is ridiculous - and then the 3rd rip off takes place when you loose your credits to guys using bots and all that kind of bs..... no, not me.
Would there be interest in a "Free Ball Only Country Club" ?
R.