You could always play booster or sealed deck drafts. They cost $10-15 each (for booster drafts) and you get nearly that value in cards, plus more if you place in the top 2 or 3. Your chance of winning against an opponent is entirely based on a combination of luck, your drafting skills, and your playing skills. Money put into the game is not a factor.

I recently played a few booster drafts and one a few of my matches, even though I hadn't played in about 10 years.