The quality of games did not improve, in fact game quality and diversity has deteriorated. The quantity of content has dropped off as well. Graphics fidelity and production costs have skyrocketed though.

Graphics are so superficial when it comes to games anyhow, why would anyone pay more for a pretty waste of time?

Neither quality nor diversity are objective measures, and I’d certainly disagree with you that they didn’t improve.

Yes both very subjective. Accessibility and streamlining gameplay has seemed to be the focus. Developing unique, novel but also enjoyable new gameplay experiences? (the reason i believe most people game) That ended with the Wii, Ps3 and 360

I will, respectfully, still disagree with that assertion. Just because Assassin’s Creed, Call of Duty, and the like are on their umpteenth entry, does not mean that no more unique and novel games are being made.