| It really depends on what kind of games you enjoy playing, tbh. I enjoy WoW greatly, though some of my friends don't.
As far as actually playing, you're right on both counts. You'd have to buy the game (and expansion) AS WELL as pay a monthly fee.
On the other hand, there are plenty of freeservers that are out there, many with their own, custom content. You'd still have to either buy the game/expansion or find somewhere to download them.
Hope this helps in some way or another. | 
