It sold based on word of mouth. Thus, whatever we think of it, it met the demands of it's consumers. As these consumers buy play more games, we can expect their standards to increase, so don't worry about things like Carnival Games. They will only do well again if they're of better quality.
A game I'm developing with some friends:
www.xnagg.com/zombieasteroids/publish.htm
It is largely a technical exercise but feedback is appreciated.