It is hard for me to put the thoughts into words.
When you decide to crowdfund, you are basically making the decision to buy something now for a promise to get something in the future. The only thing you are missing right now is that promise.
That is why I say you aren't really out anything.
Take Master, for example. He has shelled out something like $500 and has no game to play. He is taking the long view.
I paid $65 for a promise. I am taking the long view. It also is giving me time to finish my "simpit"
It is all a matter of perspective, I guess. Also, I used a debit card, so the monies was gone right away.