That's a really important question, Mub. My bottom line is that I think disc golf is more enjoyable when the punishment fits the crime.
As it turns out, my next article in the PDGA magazine addresses this very issue. I just got back from Pittsboro, NC, where I'm designing a new championship course. We've been working hard to implement design features that ensure that small mistakes don't result in big penalties.
Here's how I look at it. In the example you cite on your course -- where a small mistake can cost you three throws -- going into the rough is worse than going OB! Not only is the punishment severe on your scorecard, it's just no fun to have to try to hack your way out. What mistake is worth a three-throw penalty?
When it comes to the way the game is played, disc golf is clearly superior to ball golf in some ways. In other ways, our much older brother is still way ahead of us. For example, you can make a small mistake in ball golf and wind up in slightly taller grass or maybe in a sand trap. But you can fix it by making a great shot. You have the opportunity to redeem yourself completely and still get a par or even birdie. In disc golf, there are still many situations (like the one you mention) where you're in the rough with no good options. One little mistake, and even par is out the window.
You're right that some players love a real challenge. But I guess my question would be this: do they love the challenge of trying to hit a tough (but fair) fairway, or do they love the challenge of trying to get through 75' of thick rough in fewer than three shots?
This is a difficult problem, and I've been working on solutions for several years, as have others. My goal has been to create something that uses only natural features and does not involve moving your lie. It's not easy, but I'm pleased with what we're doing in Pittsboro, and the details will be in my next article.