Thoughts on pre-orders

[mark43]

Bit off topic but what are the thoughts regarding buying into alphas and betas at reduced prices?

DayZ is an example of such. I bought it for £20 thinking that I would inevitably buy it when it came to launch so might as well get it when it is cheap.
Long story short, game has a lonnnnggggg way to come, updates are getting fewer and further between and not addressing key issues and the devs have my money. So I am quite put off by investing in early access games now too.

I've only purchased one early access and wouldn't do it again. You mention getting it cheap, but many early access games are reduced in price during sales before they are finished, always seems a kick in the teeth for those that supported it early. Also I tend to think you're just going to spoil the game for yourself if you keep playing early versions, rather than just play the finishe product. Plus the fact that like many people my gaming time is limited, I'd rather spend that time playing completed games.

I realise there are counter arguments and some early access games could not have been made otherwise, so maybe if its a game you're passionate about, but otherwise its not for me.