Payed betas seems to be the way forward for developers nowadays, it means they can get funding to make a game they otherwise might not have the funds to make.
I have seen some very good games that use this set-up.
In the case of elite dangerous, its the successor of a very old game, a classic, probably most of those on this forum were not even born then, (some not even conceived).
Most the people i know that have bought the beta have done so because they want to relive those days, and see what it has become, it has a VERY LARGE fanbase.
I suppose their is another reason why people get the beta, and thats to get a headstart on all the other players, if you start playing the game early it means when the rest of the populous start to play it, you already are quite far ahead in terms of how to play, you will have advanced further having better in game equipment and items, as you have had the chance to work towards them. so when the game goes on general release you will be much further ahead, this is quite useful in a massive multiplayer game.
There is obviously a market for it, as many people have invested in the pre release versions of game, as long as there are people willing to part with their cash it will happen, if you don't like it then don't get the beta, no ones forcing you too, i don't see the issue here, why do people get so upset about it.
Personally i think its a great idea, i get to see on youtube/twitch the game before i play it, which is much more beneficial than watching a carefully crafted video by the devs showing off the "best" bits. It gives me a much better perspective on gameplay, and the look and feel.
I will be buying the beta for elite dangerous this month, the £150 was too much for my pocket for the alpha and even £100 for the pre beta. £50 is still cheaper than COD GHOSTS on release, and it will give me a slight head start before all you other scrubs get your dirty little hands on it
