People are talking about shaders, realism and how necessary it all is - what about the game itself? For you it seems to be less important, as you never mention this aspect.
Graphics should support a good gameplay, not cover crap. For me, good gameplay is essential. Then Graphics come - afterwards, not before.
Apart from that: Who said everybody wants realism? You can have realism every day - just try to open the door of your house. Where have all those unrealistic but gameplay wise excellent games gone? I don't want graphic demos, I want fun while playing.