Some people care about the game, not everything is about merch. So ask yourself: Why they running this event so soon?

A number of reasons surely. Need money. "Help" newer players get powerful gear. Keep your interest in the game. To be nice.

If you ask me its #1 and #3, what really matters is if they better the game at all or just go event to event like last year. That will be the most telling thing.

Wish you the best sts!