Should I own a Distortion pedal? How important are effects pedals, anyway?

Hello.  I have been playing bass for years and years (I’m an old hand at this) but I just bought my first effects pedal, a Boss ODB-3 bass overdrive, this year.  The fact that I could play that long without needing a pedal is a good indication that it’s not totally necessary.  Most bass sounds that players are going for are the cleaner, warmer, more supportive sounds that are common in rock and pop music while the wild and ostentious effects are left for prog or prog-metal styles.  So, no, I don’t really need this Boss pedal.  I am debating returning it and getting store credit because I know it’s not a “must have” item but I kind of like just owning it as a toy.  I think it might be kind of cool just to own it for shits and giggles but I also think I could put that Guitar Center credit to good use on a new bass.  What do you think?  Should I keep it just for the hell of it, knowing I don’t totally need it but kind of enjoy it or should I use that money towards something more pragmatic?  Also, post this as a general question for all your readers:  How much do effects pedals matter and to which styles?  I would be interested to see what kinds of music people are making with distortion, chorus, etc., especially in light of the fact that, traditionally, bassists use little to no effects, especially compared to guitarists.

Thanks!