I posted a Wikipedia article that really elaborates on the concept of innovation. You... talk about "normal use". What is that? Where does this norm come from? You're not talking to your friends in some bar here.
I don't think that we're having a language issue - the word innovation in my language isn't even that different (innovatie). Cheap shot!

I'm pretty sure a lot of Apple products can be considered innovative, because so many people think they are (an important aspect, but there's more to it). Me, I think they just deserve a marketing award.

Okay, I'll go for a lowbrow blow here: Good sports games.

I can't remember the last time I saw a sports game announced and I thought, "Wow, that looks fun and creative! I'm interested!"

I know what you mean. I really enjoyed the original CD-ROM version of Fifa International Soccer, but haven't managed to get into any of the later versions

For some reason people support the practice of buying the same game every year with different players...
really EA could do a content update or something for what they do every year.

It's a good point. I agree it seems like there was more innovation going on back in the 80s/90s. The way I see it, there are several problems affecting the industry today:

Firstly, the advancement of graphical technology has led to several different genres 'coalescing'. FPS, RPG, adventure all used to be quite distinct, but seem to have merged somewhat (especially with AAA publishers) into this first/third person, 3D immersive sim that we seem to see everywhere.

Secondly, there seems to be a huge drive towards photo-realistic graphics, which is causing problems in itself. For one, devs seem to be throwing more and more resources at graphics and neglecting actual game content. The drive towards realism in games is making too many games look very similar visually - it reduces the scope for artistic distinction. Also, it seems we are seeing a tapering off in recent years of graphics technology. It's becoming harder and harder to make significant graphical improvements, despite the huge amounts of resources being thrown at it, which is going to lead to stagnation.

The third issue that ties in with the graphical chase is that games are costing more and more money to make. This is leading to a situation where the bigger devs have to be more risk-averse and 'play it safe', which also reduces their scope for innovation and creativity.

At the risk if this turning into an old git rant, I personally find the current generation of AAA games to be mostly trash - style over substance that is dumbed down to appeal to a more casual audience. If younger games are willing to have an open mind with graphics, they would find many many better games among the older titles that were made in the 90s and early 2000s than today. Otherwise, indie is where it's at - forget AAA.

Except Horizon Zero Dawn. That looks good and genuinely innovative. Would definitely buy it if it came to GOG.

Op isn't being honest. Older games are way better than current games He's not being honest ffs! He wanted to take a shot at older games.

Because then, they'd lose out on the lucrative gatchapon market.

Clean breathable air.

Whirring optical drives. I really miss them already ..... not!

DRM .......... one can hope. :)