Every Metric signing I've done has been a crowded cattle call. All were free or you had to buy a cd.
I think this is the first year they've charged for VIP passes on a tour. I know they tried at one Canadian show in 2010.
Meeting them before/after a show I've seen individual members agreeing to photos. Though I've never seen full band poses in a single shot except once or twice in Europe.
The $200 is an "upgrade" instead of buying the "$250" one with primo seat or GA. Unsold inventory.
I don't think it's good value for mo ey but if they start offering soundcheck or short Q&A I'd be very tempted.