Quote from sbokov:
I do know what I am talking about...
All software is licensed to the user (it's in all the agreements), which means you are licensed to use it, but you don't own it. I am fully aware that MC uses a DRM system, and should the company be sold or otherwise switch from the existing model, all previous obligations will be fulfilled - i.e. a copy without DRM will be released to all licensed users. Otherwise, can you imagine the number of lawsuits from angered users?
A lifetime has been $1497 for at least two years, and that is a fact, with free upgrades for all license owners. Version 6.0 was $1497 and maybe even 5 and 5.5 too. The price was lower several years ago because it was a different product - it could a fraction of what it can today.
Not sure what you mean by games with prices.... As any other company, there are different offers. Currently there is an offer to existing owners of competitors' lifetime licenses, where they can purchase a lifetime of MC for $997 when they present proof of ownership. It's designed to make it easier to add another trading tool to your arsenal without giving up what you already bought, and save you money given that you already spent some on other software.
The $297 you spent on a 3 month license does not count toward your lifetime license, that's true. There is no lease-to-own program. You can simply choose the option that suits you best at a particular time, given your financial and other circumstances at the time of the purchase. If you are sure you have use for MC long-term then lifetime is the best value-for-money option.