Tech has reached a status where it doesn't have any mentionable limitations for developers anymore. So the looks really depend more on the talent and motivation of developers. And a whole lot of studios just suck in that regard. Of course it's just my personal impression. But to this very day I am more impressed bei RDR2 graphics than by many so-called Next-Gen games. Hell, even MGS 4 on the PS3 still looks mighty fine. And there are some lookers on the Switch too, despite its laughable tech.
Art design is way more important than tech these days. Even with inferior technology, a game with great art design can look better than some Unreal Engine Pathtracing game that lacks any soul. Granted, the best case scenario would be a combination of both. But at least I haven't seen that yet.
Official member of VGC's Nintendo family, approved by the one and only RolStoppable. I feel honored.