[appplication]

I think you’re right but also making a good or beloved game is not really the same endeavor as making a massively profitable one. Stardew Valley is beloved. If you described the vision to a 10k employee game studio, they could probably make something that is stardew-like, widely played, and absolutely rakes in cash through micro transactions, $49.99 variegated eggplant DLC, etc. and has the charm and soul of a cold baked potato.

Beloved games have heart, vision, and they don’t establish a predatory relationship with their customers. There will always be a place for them to gamers, because these attributes can’t be faked. There will also always be a place for soulless AAA because, as you said, the MBAs can bake these on paper, reliably, and procedurally.

[spacemadness]

The idea of Stardew Valley with microtransactions just ruined my day.

[kevinmchugh]

It's just Farmville.

[urthor]

Or, Stardew Valley is FarmVille+ love.

Maybe that's the secret.

[mysterydip]

havest carrot (10 hrs) [harvest instantly for 5 gems!]

[Groxx]

It's just Dreamlight Valley.

[thefringthing]

This comment undervalues cold baked potatoes. They are a great snack.