I personally don't really have a problem with RNG mechanics themselves. It's their relation with real money transactions (and absurd prices) that rises concern for me, on top of all the different psychological manipulations aimed at pushing vulnerable people (including children) into spending more and more.
But to get back to the topic, my point was just that any kind of gameplay, even RNG-based, is better than nothing for some people. Just having the feeling of doing something and getting rewarded is enough.
Kinetic novels aren't especially popular for the same kind of reason. Even a couple of choices will greatly alter people's interest. Video games are all about interaction after all.