I think this is the best thing that can happen as you state because people can read it, understand it and then make a move accordingly.....I think to someone who doesn't know what to expect it's important for the guidance to be very clear.
That makes perfect sense, and was the wise thing to do. Had they released it an hour or less before the opening bell, much of the trading would have been emotional over re-acting, and "gaming it", as you said.