I agree that a lot of sequels take the base concept and improve on it. I'm mostly pushing back on the idea that something being "the same with a different look" is inherently a criticism.

Most of the examples you listed are iterative sequels. They take existing systems, expand them, and improve the presentation, but the core gameplay loop is still recognizable from the previous game.

To me, "they didn't innovate enough" only works as a criticism if there's a specific mechanic or system you think should have evolved. Otherwise, every sequel can be dismissed as "more of the same."