While total disclosure on what went wrong would be great, I'm betting it's probably not going to happen. And honestly, I'm not sure fans need to know all the dirty details of what went wrong. I think the fact that they're openly acknowledging that they dropped the ball, and need to make it up to fans, is a good sign.

I really like your idea about engaging the fans directly, and getting their thoughts on the suckiness. They've clearly got a passionate fanbase.

I think the content of the emails is going to be everything. One big complaint about the game was that folks were just waiting for weeks on end to hear anything–so getting communication from the creative team behind the show might actually be a good substitute.

I received a second email today, and it's promising a sneak peek at the season premiere. I would consider that a pretty "way inside look." I'm off to sneak my peek.

another thought is that they should be honest. If indeed it blew up because of money, they should tell people. Or they should tell people why they think it sucked. Why not engage them honestly, and get their thoughts on the suckiness?

Ie: This ARG didn't work because too many people joined/we ran out of money/ we got in over our heads (thankfully we're not the ones making the show, those people are good). etc.

I think the important thing to remember is this point: People will not be turned off of lost because the game sucked. People will not be turned off the show if they e-mail them. but they'll be pissed. And I'm not sure I see the need to do that.