[Angrist]

I don't know where I stand on the topic.

On one hand: yeah it's pretty weird that a game developer has to change his game because the fans didn't like it.

On the other hand: a) It apparently works, the developer has to think about his image, and b) the fans know the developer is capable of doing much better and they suggest they use their potential.

Instead of comparing it to art, compare it to a car that you drive and you know a way to improve it. Or a comic you read and you have a great idea for a volume.

Or what about all those directors that come up with multiple endings to their movies? Think of The Butterfly Effect. There's the "director's cut" ending which not too many appreciated. Then there's the alternative one which the director made the standard ending in European cinemas: people felt better about that ending and the director gave in. It's good business for him.
The director's cut can still be found for people who prefer it.