If i was to start over again which i have to (the strip now requires a key even though i was in there before?), should i or should i not play with or without downloading the xbox live patch?

I'm not sure what the patch did.

You probably don't have to start over btw. I had the Strip door lock on me too- just go and use the Monorail in McCarran that goes to the Strip and next time you leave through the previously locked door it should return to normal.