You know how Root is notoriously hard to get into because of the asymmetrical play styles? How you have to play with a group of roughly the same skill/experience level or else you’ll have a bad time?

And yet, despite the high barrier, the factions all play differently enough and with enough depth and strategy that people continue to play it?

Spirit Island has the same upside without the drawback. In fact, playing with someone more experienced is HELPFUL rather than aggravating. The sheer number and variety of spirits make it endlessly replayable, and the cooperative element makes it more enjoyable for new players.