Gameplay isn’t the top priority for developers anymore and hasn’t been for AWHILE. A variety of features, realistic graphics, bigger worlds with more side missions and more making games LONGER has been the wave since at least two generations ago.
I mean, when a game is being reviewed, how often are reviewers placing emphasis on how fun a game is anymore???
Also, there are far fewer pick up and play games anymore. A lot of games have an extensive learning curve or three hour tutorial section before you can even really start getting into it.