I gave 5 stars because this game is as advertised. If you choose to not make a purchase (as I did) then yes, you have to watch a lot of videos to get gold and container items BUT it clearly gives you the option to make any purchase to remove the ads. I am now level 36 and have not made any purchases and am hanging right up there with the rest. In the early stages it is pretty tough but if you take time and learn and have good strategy you can be a competitive player.