I have had my Go for about three years. I seldom cut with rotary cutter any more. There isn't a pattern that can't be adapted to the die sizes. I think the mats last a long time but some think they wear out fast. They aren't expensive so I don't really pay attention that much. I know I'm still using some of the first mats I bought. I use the white mats.
Youtube has all the video you need for tips and cutting how to and lots of ways to use the dies to get a second shape. I use my circle die to cut leaf shapes by not covering all the die. Also accucutquilters group at yahoo is a great forum to get any answers about the machines.