Steam has a beta mode, which allows new versions of a game to be released separately from the main release for users who opt-in. This could allow a small amount of QA on new features and provide a more stable first experience with new users. This came to me after the recent docking change - it was identified as a needed balance change almost immediately, but still caused significant displeasure to several new players.
A lot of it depends on how difficult it is to set up - I know that Fallen Enchantress uses it. I
submitted this idea to Mantis, but thought it was worth discussing here as well. My thought is that even a few hours early with the new patch would be useful, but running on a one day lag would be even better.
