I see this recent wave of kickstarts as the ultimate pre-order. I think it is a very good thing. The developers get money up front, so if they get enough to finance the project, anything that comes in after the release is pure profit. I guess it could be a risk though - imagine kickstarting Duke Nukem Forever. It could take a long time to realize your investment.

Grim Dawn is looking pretty good and would definitely be something I would buy. The question is pay now if they have a kickstart or wait until the release?