If it anything like the 2014 edition, and from first glance it looks like it, then I would not recommend buying the complete edition.
Making the assumption that the 2015 edition is like 2014, then buying the complete edition will grant you decks that you normally would unlock via the campaign as well as give you "foil" cards. So, unless you just want to play online and not touch campaign I wouldn't even consider the complete edition.
As for being new to the game, I am too and have only played for about 10-15 hours via the video game and the actual game. It's really fun and enjoyable. If you are new to those types of games however, I recommend Hearthstone to get your feet wet. Hearthstone really helped me learn to strategize and what not in Magic.
And last but not least, if you are not going to play Magic right now I would wait for a sale. Magic 2014 has been on sale twice in the past few month for $2.50 for the base and like $5 for the gold, and $10 for the Gold Complete iirc. I understand you want 2015, but if 2014 goes on sale then you and your friend could pick up the base game for $2.50 a piece. And Magic doesn't really change from year to year that much from what I have heard.
The only card game I've ever gotten into is Yu-gi-oh. I'd consider myself advanced (as of 2013 format, took a break b/c of Dragon Rulers). If this is a completely different style of card game, then I guess my feet aren't wet at all.
I have noticed the crazy low sales on the 2014 editions, AS WELL as the loads of ridiculous "DLC." But you point out something great, I can get one of the previous editions. Even if my friend isn't willing to shell out the cash for a copy of his own, I certainly could.
At my heart, I think I get Steam games cheap, and 8 bucks feels like too much. I actually set up family sharing with him today (for him to get my games), so I'm sure he'd let me get in on his copy of Magic to at least play for a couple hours.
Thanks for the reply. Watched some videos, and although it looks cool, I LOVE your recommendation of getting another edition. I can even wait for a price drop, with bonus packs discount included, as I perhaps enjoy the older titles. Thanks.
Other commentary more than welcome! But you sir, deserve a cookie. Have six!
"The bad part is that your friend may be sick of that version and will want to play 2015 instead..."
Sorry to cut out so much of your post. Appreciate all of it. But I'd like to say that he just started last week himself. Haha.