Hi!
Thanks for the kind words and support. You're right that this method relies solely on the Ethereum network to function. Essentially all ERC20 tokens are just contracts on the blockchain with some convenient functions for managing balances, etc. There are plenty of examples of somewhat successful tokens built this way. Golem, Gnosis and Iconomi are all ERC20 tokens that are currently sitting in the top 20 on coinmarketcap.com. You can definitely create your token without a crowd sale. This video actually demonstrates just that. It's also possible to add some functions in order to mint more if the need arises.