Did you like it?
Yes

Did you hate it?
Absolutely not...frustrating sometimes though

Would you recommend trying it?
Absolutely. It is a good ego check along with making you learn to throw better shots along with a lot of spare shooting
 
Was it more expensive?
No. We bowl 6 games a night and pay $20 per night. Prize fund isn't very big, but most of us aren't there for the prize fund anyway.

Can you get away with 2 decent balls (making adjustments) or 4+ arsenal necessary
Tough call. I think that a two ball arsenal is going to be a challenge. 4 balls would be a better option, but you can get by with 2 if you can change surfaces. Most of bowlers in my league bring 4 or 5 balls depending on the pattern.

Give it a try...you might end up liking it.