Average time in early access for games is 2.5 years (it has been one). Average means half take longer, and half take less time. Temper your expectations accordingly.

I have found that people who say the devs are just taking the money and running are often not making an accurate prediction, but instead are telling on themselves. That's what THEY would do, in that situation, so they have a hard time believing that others would behave more appropriately.