I’m not gonna play both sides of the issue here, but:
If you knew how long I’ve been throwing and what I’ve spend compared to my pathetic skill level… well, I live hard, I work hard, I play hard. I guess that’s sufficient to say.
If you can bind, get the Genesis. Chances are it won’t make you a better player, but it’s a good yoyo and it should be of great use to you.
The Fiesta XX is great. I just got mine last week. It is big, durable, long spins, and binds well. It is great for learning. I had a Duncan Flying Panda when I began. Now I have a Fiesta XX, and I can learn tricks way easier.
No, it is only meant to hit the ground during offstring play. My Fiesta XX has hit the ground plenty of times during play, and still has barely any marks. But it hasn’t been thrown at the ground.