It's also worth noting that the nature of video games have changed. Back then you'd pay $ for a cartridge and CD and that was it. There was little in the way of analytics.
Now it's all about DLC and ancillary monetization - with high power analytics. The model has shifted towards addiction.
http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/131494/behavioral_game...
Anyone who's ever played some gacha money sink will understand the danger they pose. It seems harmless until you're waking up at 4 AM to do daily tasks that boil down to nothing but resetting a couple timers.
The worst part is the traditional games industry is watching. They really like the way these mobile games generate revenue. This sort of design is starting to show up on the more traditional platforms too...