I think this is the most fun game online and that's exactly how I've been approaching it, as a game. The whitepaper quote you mentioned in your post made it very clear to me from the start when I read it. Value is subjective here.
It's a fun platform and the interaction between members has been as rewarding as the payouts, the content a joy to red if you can ignore the complaining. Are we having fun yet? I sure am. Steem on!