I had forgotten all about "randowhale" and some of the other bid bots. One of the most exhilarating attributes about the STEEM/HIVE chains is the endorphin rush the blogger gets from a big upvote. If you're new and can't attract a whale to upvote you to get your HAPPY BRAIN JUICE hit, the ability to purchase a little something is a decent substitute and a decent ROI. Like a "buy a 777" option on a slot machine.
It did seem like the content was better then. Perhaps because bigger rewards attracted better talent?