I avoid AAA games because…well they’re corporate crap, simply put. I don’t like how they operate as a business, I don’t like the aggressive monetization, I don’t like how they treat their creative staff…so I buy from small studios and indies.

I do occasionally buy games in early access. I typically join the campaign fairly late, I don’t kickstart three pieces of concept art and a “now hiring programmers,” I want to see a pattern of updates along with regular communication that shows a pattern of being honest and transparent. I’ll join in when the game is already in a playable and fun state.