A new player should go for some mix of elevator pass and CE- the latter because you need it to jump-start your way into 3-4* gear (where you can start running T2 for profit), and the pass so that you can practice your skills while reserving your mist for revives or crafting. I think the Starter Pack should ditch the 5 mist tanks in favor of a 1 or 2-week pass; this would make it truly a newbie's dream package. On the other hand, the mist tanks act similar to a pass- they give you extra energy to mess with. I just think the mini-pass makes more sense, as it allows the newbie to explore without wasting energy (which they may not understand how precious it is).

Older players who can already earn their keep by running T2 (in 3-4* gear) should go for the pass, especially if they have the time to play. It allows you to run different gates for fun and practice your techniques, as every level run becomes a net positive (good way to hone your Candlestick Keep or fiend-killing skills!). If you don't play a lot, then obviously the pass isn't worth it and you should go for a CE package instead (I'd wait for a sale or promo to maximize your CE/$).

I seem to recall (by your forum presence) that you fall into the latter category.

If you'll do at least 800 levels in 90 days, the Elevator Pass is definitely a better deal. I think the game is more enjoyable if you work your way up instead of buying your way straight to 5* gear, even if you make that process much faster with an Elevator Pass. I also enjoy the freedom of the Elevator Pass. I can join a floor, decide I don't want to play that level, and leave. None of the profit I'm making by playing is deducted in the form of CE, so I don't need to wait for Arenas to maximize profit, and I can stroll through the first half of a tier without bothering to cut grass and kill every monster. I just have a lot more fun when I'm not worrying about profit margins.

@Ndognine I've done all my SK purchases through Steam; no difficulties here. Not sure what an Ultimate Game Card is but you can also just purchase directly with a credit/debit card.

Please refrain from spreading around rumors, especially ones that are definitely false.

And OP, personally I would go for the elevator passes. It's just my preference.

@Rangerwill Well, you already know how much I love my elevator pass. If you're worrying about not having enough CE for crafting, don't: I've actually crafted 3 5* items in the past 4 days (well, technically on the 14th, 16th and 17th).

@Ndognine You have that backwards: UGC doesn't work with steam, but does with SK directly.