Gameplay isnt the most important thing in games.

[LMU Uncle Alfred]

This topic refers more to game design, which I agree actually. The very beginning vision that is set out to make a game is the most important thing. More important than gameplay.

Let's take MGS3 vs. MGS4. Both games have great gameplay, but the controls in MGS4 are far smoother and precise than in MGS3. You even had access to more customization options in MGS4.

However, even putting aside story differences I felt the world and approach to MGS3 was just far more interesting and engaging.