The current generation of players got very hyped with FPS' serious and realistic approach, to me it seems to be a trend that newer players, feel artistic styles don't suit a game in order to be taken seriously, as you mentioned, Wind Waker is a great example of what happened, another being Okami, a game with a great art direction, however it was also a commercial flop.
Getting excited for a game, only because the spit on the floor shines of white when approached to the sun, is like watching porn for a story.
I am not trying to be against any game, but this current generation of games, disappoints me, especially with the games I grew up with.
Prometheus720
Hmm. I know just how you feel. The graphics situation is ruining the gaming industry. If you want to remember how games used to be about story and gameplay, there's that new game her on NG, Starwish. Try it. Bet you'll see what I mean.