In theory, early access could be cool. An interesting way of experiencing a game you're excited for ages in advance, at a discount price, and even helping steer the development process.

In practice, like free-to-play and DLC, it's being used by a lot of companies to squeeze maximum value out of limited content.

Every time I get interested in a game in Steam, if I open the store page and I see the blue banner saying that it's early access, I close it immediately.

I don't mind smaller independent studios utilizing it. It must be quite hard in todays's competitive market to release a polished product especially when you've got limited funds and resources. I think early access works well for these sort of studios because fan feedback is actually integral to their future so those who support the game actually have a voice. Day Z is probably in the middle really, developed by an independent studio but they're hardly small. It's sad to see bigger companies utilizing it though to squeeze cash out of players, especially those whose games are going to launch F2P like H1Z1 and Heroes of the Storm.

Early access seems fine to me. Nobody is forcing you to buy it.

Yes, I saw that! The DayZ Frostline DLC has indeed faced a lot of backlash from players who feel that the $26.99 price tag is too high for what's included. The DLC adds a new snow-covered map called Sakhal, but many players feel it doesn't offer enough new content to justify the cost.

Bohemia Interactive's CEO, Marek Spanel, responded to the criticism by pointing out that the studio has received very little revenue per hour of gameplay from the game over the years. He even referenced the Beatles song "Please Please Me" in his response, highlighting the frustration with the situation.

It's definitely a heated debate.