I think the only argument I can make for those who not only stuck with the game to the end but paid for it is that you know these people will indeed participate in the alpha, instead of those who get in, decide they hate it, and never log in again. Ideally the alpha participants will be on as much as possible to help test whatever they're working on currently.

Personally I don't think being a legacy user should guarantee you a spot even though I am a legacy user, and I can't condone this sense of entitlement that seems to come with it. I supported this game not so that I could have first crack at 2.0, but because I support what Yoshi is doing and want him to be able to see it through. I get the frustration at not being invited to the club (especially since I didn't get invited either :P), but I just can't see why people are so pissed off at not getting in.