I kind of have the same thought in regards to both Splinterlands and their proposal, you've written out the thoughts decently and in a respectful manner, atleast in my eyes!
You've mentioned @simplegame, he's more applying some kind of #play2own, right? That's a proven concept, like mtg, pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, etc. Really curious how his games will turn out! :D
I've tried to do it in a respectful manner ;) And honestly.
Yes, he calls it #play2own. There's no real product yet, though, let's see how he handles it.