I think you're both correct. I've seen a spectrum of "whales" that include: (1) very "casual" players who don't spend that much time, and just want to roll, or

I think you're both correct. I've seen a spectrum of "whales" that include: (1) very "casual" players who don't spend that much time, and just want to roll, or to use money as a substitute for game time; (2) very dedicated players who want to be at the top of some ranking.