matters of theme

Even in games where story is practically nonexistent, a little bit of story is often implied by theme. And that can make a difference. I admit that I am, for example, a complete sucker for certain kinds of fantasy themes. I played endless hours of a slidy match-3 because it was packed full of glowing fairies.

But despite the visual appeal, I find it impossible to get interested in an oil-drilling simulation.

If only all those nice panels were part of, I dunno, a Fallout-style game or a space adventure or something...