Any question answered...

do I have to run sram cables with a sram force groupset or will regular (cheaper) cables work

You can use what you want, although nice cables, and in particular good outer does make a difference to shifting quality and brake feel.

Also be aware that inners with a plastic outer coat will be an absolute sod to thread into the shifters. But it sounds like you aren't going to have that problem as only posh inners get to have their own plastic jacket :)