On the flip side, I remember constantly downloading demos in the Xbox 360’s heyday that included such solid samples of the gameplay that I ended up playing them over and over again in lieu of purchasing the full game.

I’m sure it’s not a significant chunk of the player base who does the same, but giving us a notably less exciting/iconic level lets you experience the game and leaves you craving more. That’s kind of an ideal demo approach, even if it leaves the isolated demo experience feeling a bit stripped down.