Are graphics really that important?

[NintendoMan]

Depends alot on the game. If a game is really good in terms of story, gameplay, difficulty then graphics take a backseat. However graphics can make a good game great and in some genres such as FPS or driving simulator (ala GT) then graphics are very important indeed. In the end good art direction and a unique style can compensate. Its very much a personal thing. For some people graphics matter intensely. That is the way of things.