I had the regular Moto Z for a short time before selling it for a profit and going back to using my Nexus 6P. From everything I've heard/seen/read, the Play is an even better device. I'd say it's worth the money.
Thanks. I just thought I'd get a second opinion because I've never had an unlocked phone and wanted to make sure it was worth it before I decided to forfiet my option of the carrier replacing it.
If you're buying the phone new, you can get decent insurance coverage from Square Trade or another third party. It's right about on par with (sometimes better than) the coverage the carriers offer. Only downside is you pay for it upfront in one lump sum instead of making monthly payments, but depending on how long you keep the device, it ends up being cheaper than insuring through your carrier in most cases.