I don't think the art direction is bad. But to my eyes it looks cheap and/or lazy. Like a phone game (or, honestly a decent Flash animation from 2010).

I think you hit the nail on the head. Gilbert has grumped for 20+ years about finally making the game he wants. But some of the magic looks to be missing.

Still, I will give him the benefit of the doubt. I am definitely going to buy the game.