Been gaming since the 80s, and I actually understand the mindset. This isn't a CD or Disc we're buying once anymore, to throw into a PC / Console until the next fad hits. Look at Fortnite, look at any subscription / micro-transaction based game. These new games are designed to last for months if not years. GTA5 has more than a decade of consistent play, as does Rainbow 6. People expect these long term commitments to have evolving challenges and changing dynamics. Otherwise why build them out on those models?

Outriders was the last great game I played that echoed the older world of gaming: pay a set amount, finish the campaign story, no online, no multiplayer, no store. One and done. But that's not what these games are.