I talk to John almost every day. He has a passion for this game like nothing I have ever seen. I think he will be able to pull it off. I DON'T think he will make any money on this project. I just can't see it happening with a 13 machine run.
I do think it will be cool.
I seriously considered buying one, but did not.
John has a track record of some very good game designs. He does alot of the art himself too. The production, well, that remains to be seen, but he's a long standing guy in the industry, so if anyone has resources, it would be him. He has told me you can design a great game, but without a great programmer, you have nothing. I am sure he is getting a great programmer for this endeavour.
In just talking to him you can tell his excitement for the game and the project. It's a shame he has not been able to hook up with Stern or JJP. Maybe in the future, but I think going out on his own will unleash creativity that is needed in this market.
It is definately up there in the price though. If he can keep making games, and have them be proven, and come to a price alot more can afford he just might have something here.
The fact that all 13 are already pre-sold is a good thing for him, and does show people are willing to pay for something they think will be great.
Chris