People certainly were not smarter back then. Generally gaming was more niche and especially in the PC side of things there was a general idea that smart people where the only ones using computers. This mindset imploded on itself when Doom mania hit the world. There are still some smart people games out there, fortunately some even here on GOG, but anything that aims to be next big thing will be targeting the human tragedy demographic. Like the most popular movies, Tv shows, etc. The best selling car isn't the best car, it's just a car that fits most people. It's mediocre by design.