It is that simple.

Every dynamic variable in the game is designed to either add to the atmosphere of your game situation or bait you with incentives to adventure on and level up. These variables, and the interaction between mobs and players, are the pure gameplay of any game. Most games are entirely lacking in gameplay, and not very balanced when they have more than the basic gameplay variables.

So you buy a game. You quickly gain levels and reach the end. You buy another game. In the end its the gameplay, balance, pace, and fun adventuring that decide whether your few days with the game was a good or bad experience.