Planning! Plan how your game will look from start to finish First! It's easier to build around proper framework than have to tear down everything coz you forget 1 screw loose
Pretty much how i see vtuber. I wouldn't say i falling in love with actors behind png persona. But i respect them for bringing the i attracted to character alive.
If the gameplay are solid and offer more content(Story or unlocking new skill that unlock more gameplay element) sure the journey it self can be as much fun as the destination
Sure like half of my playtime in cyberpunk or witcher are spend on side quest and make me more grounded to the world in game and make the game overal more enjoyable