Graphics and physics engines, wich offer what i want?

[Acies]

As I see it games have gone from innovativeness in gameplay styles to (present day) a heavy focus on graphics and physics reactions.

I do not agree with your first post because I don't miss "an unlimited number of guns" or a "static crosshair". I miss the innovativeness old games had. To me it doesn't really matter wheter the cross-hair is green or red (those are just details which in themselves wouldn't matter much to the experience itself) as long as the game is fun.

With budget constraints a current-gen game relies heavily on graphics to sell. In most cases a game can't have "top-notch" graphics combined with awesome gameplay. It's too much effort for a game company (in most cases). That's the reason why your idea, although cool(?), wouldn't work in the real world. You can't eat the cake and still keep it. Both awesome mechanics, graphics and gameplay isn't possible within a budget.

I therefore look to indie-developers, as they often ignore graphics and go for gameplay (Hurray!).

This is merely an input of my opinion, you may dismiss it if it differs from yours. I don't really want to argue wheter an opinion (my/yours) is right or wrong.

Enjoy your evening sir