sorry, was mentioning the "competitive entry barrier" that's why.
Replying to your question in order:
1- the entry to play is really acceptable for what is offered.
2- It's difficult to place a definition of what competitive is. From my background, I would say that if I play competitive I'm in a game where my choices are the same as other people and where my "weapons" won't differ from others.

the idea of investment tier is right, it will probably even out imbalances between players' deck.