I shared a few of my thoughts on Product Hunt as well. I agree that the app is both horrible ….& horribly addictive; but has some serious legitimacy. There is a definite psychological response to something being stolen from me that brings me back more often than I’d care to admit :)

Another game released probably 7 or 8 years ago that had a similar compulsion was called “Pets” on Tagged. The game has several key differences; the only profiles you can buy are those of registered users to Tagged and you can buy yourself back. The service sent you emails with the message that “someone bought you”. I had the same compulsion to open the site and buy myself back. Years later, the game is still around….. selling virtual coin for real cash.

I don’t think that this game will retain buzz for too long in the tech scene, but there are definitely markets that could keep this app alive and well for a long time — it’s a matter of minding the economy and engagement loops. Siqi Chen’s Zynga experience will certainly help keep the user base engaged with more feature and game mechanics & also keep the economy from inflating too much with his knowledge of how to create sinks within games.

PS — Is it a badge or shame or honor to admit that I Casey Newton (link) and Hunter Walk (link) at $15k…. ah fuck it, just stole you, too :)