Core incentive to play a game should always be to have fun while doing so.

In my opinion, not being forced to complete an in-game day in one sitting, but rather at your own leisure, matches perfectly the chill and leisurely gameplay of Stardew Valley.

But is that actually an issue if the people playing it are having a good time and like the game that way?

I never opined on whether it’s an issue.

“Is game same in a fundamentally way, yes/no.” No more, no less.

I forgot about that, but I actually prefer it. But I'm also curious what the core incentive is that you feel this change breaks.

Urgency, planning, consequences

Do you go crystal farm, or do you go into town and form a relationship, or routine watering of your farm, or …

You are still required to sleep regularly to get energy back.