Some of them are already fully funded, others need a little help.

Is it safe to give them my money if they’re already funded?

How can I tell if the end result is going to be as awesome as they promised?

The problem with that mindset though is that you’renotshopping.

You’reinvesting, and that comes with risks that aren’t necessarily obvious at first, although they should be.

Other sites are okay with that.

That should also be a cause for concern.

That’s another great step.

However, it’s important to keep digging.

Then the founders are free to get their act together and have another go later.

There are just too many campaigns out there, and too many people trying to get rich quick.

To be fair, the Ouya in’tbad, per se.

it’s crucial that you be prepared for disappointment even if you have high hopes for the campaign.

Keep those things in mind when you put your money down.

Sincerely,Lifehacker

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Title photo byTina Mailhot-Roberge.

Additional photos byToronto History,USDA, andKletr(Shutterstock).