To put it into perspective, Japanese games focus a lot on catering to our emotions. That's why they are memorable. If a game can cater to a lot of your emotions, it can become very memorable and enjoyable just for that. Of course, the game must play pretty well too to allow you to enjoy those emotions.
Western games generally have more intuitive gameplay than Japanese games. They are however very lacking in the emotion department. There might be some comedy here and there, and maybe a few important powerful moments, but their executions are weak. There's not enough simple light-hearted moments to make the player feel relaxed and happy. There's far too much cynicism in the overall atmosphere of western games. Thus you are left with a feeling of emptiness and a sense of wanting more; but you can't seem to quench it. It wouldn't even matter how good the game play is.
Without great substance to back the great gameplay up, the experience of the game can be hurt.
This will only take a moment of your time. *steals your watch*
