question about this and that

hey guys. i game this game for the first time on the 9th server and have a big question. is it possible to play with fun and also with some succes without buying rubies? i will for sure not spent 5 dollars for a weapon, the prices are just imense high i think. i can see it that i have problems with winning against other gladiators which are even under my level. ye thats it. as long as i can play with success i will. and another question. in the beginning i had 20 rubies. is that normal for everyone?
peace mates