The raise of AAA+ Games

I suppose this is the natural consequence when you repeatedly release game sequels--your audience potentially grows tired of the same thing.

Further, I'd argue that we are in the dark ages of gaming. Yes, game engines, broadband, and hardware make for incredible experiences. But, publishers aren't daring with new experiences, so the market is filled with constant rehashes of the same franchise. Since that didn't make enough for the industry now we have deluxe editions and season passes ad nauseum.

Where is game innovation? Instead of DLC for new maps, where are the procedurally generated levels to keep a game fresh? Where is the progress in AI for single player games? Where are the driving games filled with traffic to drive around?