But complexity =/= fun. Factorio shows that "simple gameplay" can lead to massive fun.
IMO, the AAA titles would be better if less time was spent on a bleeding edge physics system, and more time spent on other aspects.
IMO, the AAA titles would be better if less time was spent on a bleeding edge physics system, and more time spent on other aspects.
It’s okay that AAA games exist, because there is still room in the market for games like Factorio, which has experienced a long and successful life.
They would be better games but wouldn't sell as well. Video game sales are driven heavily by screenshots, trailers, and "Let's Play" videos. Graphics and physics look good in those media, actual personal fun experiences less so.
There's probably some higher level business principle here that products end up designed to optimize for the property that most heavily constrains sales instead of the properties that maximize customer satisfaction.
See also: Hollywood movies, book covers, synthesizer presets, house flippers, car interior widgets, etc.