So, think about it. What company in its right mind would think it was ok to give a big f you to its loyal fanbase? What company would risk looking like amateurs by the laughable delivery of new content that existing players need to buy again?
Not bungie.
Maybe this whole having to buy the game again to get the new stuff was a ruse. So now the gaming world is talking about it, news stations are talking about it. Free PR, and then BAM, Bungie announce that the vets are getting some awesome stuff, so they seem like the perfect brand. Bungie is now the good guy, and all the vets are now convinced they'll be purchasing The Taken King. If so Bungie, and you knew you could spin bad publicity into good, then I tip my hat to you.
-
Your scenario would require them to have some foresight. Inconceivable.