After I posted the link about Patreon, I found this bit, where @Eiwynn was discussing the use of Patreon with someone who seemed to take issue with it:
That actually makes more sense than not being able to post an alpha without making it public within a month. It even went further to state that the alpha can be on patreon with the understanding that it will eventually be posted publicly. The post is a treasure trove of info.
Yeah, I used to be vehemently against microtransactions (I hate EA Games for that and, to a lesser extent, UbiSoft), but with choicescript games, I find myself craving microtransactions so I can get my hands on parts of the game sooner. I’m not a patient person when it comes to entertainment, and I’m a spoiler whore from hell, so anything that solves that problem is something I would want. I think public betas would help with that, instead of limited betas, but most games don’t offer that now.
Right. That was why I specified I only like Patreon when the author is able to balance the extra work with getting the game finished. I mean, when you write you do need a break from the main piece you’re writing or you go bonkers–plus, it helps to flex that creative muscle a different way, much like any other muscle–but it’s supposed to be a break, not an extended vacation.