I think the biggest criticism is the pricing, not the existence of the cash shop. It is using the Apple model versus the Walmart model of pricing targeting the whales which is probably more profitable. Like you said, it does not impede gameplay at all though it is always somewhat concerning to see such an emphasis on a cash shop for a product that is still in beta. I will continue to play and see how it goes.
Yeah, I feel exactly the same. I am hoping there is much more content and map once the game releases. They do intend to do events from what I understand but have no idea what else is in store.