I fail to see how art is being hindered because of sales and mass appeal. The newest Super Monkey Ball game has some of the best art in the series to date, and it is easily the most casual release in the series. Brutal Legend has some of the best and most inspired art I ever saw in a game in years (and I am not even a fan of Metal music), and even if you will not admit it, games like Halo have really fantastic art. I think the God of War series is overrated out the ass, but have you seen that new trailer with the giants? Maaaaaaaan that is some awesome art!
I am not sure you are looking hard enough for the games you like and are just mad with what you do come across. Did you ever play games like Raiden IV, for instance? I think that would really appeal to you.
