I completely agree. To me, it's the same with adventure, and platformer games and 2D. I think the key is symbolism. In 2D, graphics are more about communicating intent, 3D is more for realism - or maybe this is just the trap they fall into, because there are highly stylized 3D games as well, as well as technically-3D-but-actually-2D games.

Couldn't agree more. To me 3D environment in games is frustrating to control / move around while 2D is straightforward. And I truly don't care about camera movement. Games are meant to be fun, not a chore with adjusting camera all the time.