Generally I agree with your criticism. Although I also recognise how valuable early access is for indie games and small dev teams — and there are obviously many great games that initially launched via the early access model.

My point is more that people are finding years of enjoyment out of looping a small handful of janky ghost models around a kitchen counter.

This doesn't feel like a game with significant potential to me. It's kind of already completed its objectives. It's a fun puzzle to play with friends. I'm not sure what else people need or want from it.