There once were several fine word processors,spreadsheets,databases,etc,that were not clones of each other or MS stuff.
MS has won its share more through questionable ethics in marketing ,than by technical merit alone.But sometimes the competition did really dumb things,too. Nor is MS the first company to bully their way to the top-for a real eye-opener investigate retailing,especially groceries,pet products,and personal care items.
The playing field isn't level,maybe never has been;the rich kid always could come to the game with a new mitt,ball,and uniform and a private coach.
Open office does as much as MS Office and even more. It will take getting used to the menus and options but it is a easy transition if you are techno savvy.