I really have to agree that games are about enterntainment, not tech. Tech is just how the games are realized. GTA III is still awesome, even without HDR, Normal Mapping, and a high polygon count. Sure the 5th gen systems couldn't have pulled it off (the DS maybe, considering Cop The Recruit), but the game was good because Rockstar made it good, not the PS2 made it good.
Also, it's ironic that what is criticized in Hollywood is considered good in game. I see plenty of movie fans complain about bloated budgets, effects at the expense of story, weak scripts, and focusing on just the opening weekend, even if the film has no legs. Yet that's considered the way to go in gaming, even though games don't have all the supplementary revenue streams (DVD, TV airings, merchandising, licensed games) that allow large movie budgets.
A flashy-first game is awesome when it comes out. A great-first game is awesome forever.
Plus, just for the hell of it: Kelly Brook at the 2008 BAFTAs
