Well said.
Okay... true confession time. Several years ago, when Nintendo Wii was relatively new, it shipped with a game called Endless Ocean. I loved that game. It had a general storyline but was very non-linear, and had achievements (find a unique albino Blue Whale, and encounter and identify various marine life species), and I suppose I could focus on completing those as quickly, completely, and efficiently as possible, or I could (and did) just "go with the flow" and enjoy the immersive graphics and the Hayley Westenra music. This has generally been the approach I've used with Holiday Island (where the "wildlife" is considerably more stimulating...).
Sounds like good time memories, indeed!
Reminds me of Metriod days on Nintendo.
Then later, custom player made maps of Unreal Tournament.
AVN's for me, music and writing do it most.
Visuals are a big plus, especially but not exclusively when done well.
Those that are games, depends on player-mechanics combined.
However, even when it's not something i prefer and not to extreme.
Will still test some of them thoroughly as i'm able.
Can stumble on different perspectives that are at times enlightening.
Know many in person i can share/promote/suggest games/VN's/Dev's.
Helps when asked, to have first hand knowledge.
Can't suggest a car or motorcycle i've never test drivin'
Thank You, Appreciate You Sharing