I don't think I've really seen any play to earn games, but from what I understand the payout is pretty low which means a ton of time to farm to make money. Only good pay to earn games I know are those where selling gold is a ban offence, but the payout rate is pretty decent.
I didn't really buy too many games in 2021 ironically, I'm glad I didn't buy Battlefield 2042 at launch, but I'd say maybe Hot Wheels is one of the only enjoyable games I've played that came out in 2021.
I own the game for my PS4, although I find it nice and relaxing, I can't really get into it too much myself. I know the aspect is to be creative, but on vanilla like worlds it's a tad too bland.
Probably either League Of Legends ($200), or Sims 4 (with the DLCs around $140). As long as I get my money out of it play wise and value wise, I don't see a huge issue with the upfront cost or additional costs for good DLCs.
I prefer to own the actual item in a physical copy, since there have been a bunch of examples with movies/songs, where you purchased them but then later the store losses right to share/sell it, and then it just disappears from your account without a credit or anything.