lets assume for the sake of argument some of these platforms aren't scams/bullshit hype and actually add value in some way. like the prediction platforms augur or gnosis.

the main problem, i then see is that if these tokens are required to use the platform, wouldnt their cost be prohibitive? and the platform wont be useful?

these tokens are going up in value just like bitcoin which always had actual use (mostly on blackmarket) so their incentives are aligned with the token being used as a currency, but not as an app token that is required for the product.

so in effect, these are just over hyped quasi securities offerings and trading.