Quote Originally Posted by dirkdirden
ZELDA 64
Total Time -- 48 months
Graphics --12 months
Gameplay -- 12 months
Story -- 12 months
Functionality -- 12 months
What are you smoking?

Though your point is overly simplified, I see what you're saying. Companies do have limited resources, and they'll devote those to different places. However, few companies will actively sacrifice gameplay for graphics - but some companies will be content with average gameplay, whilst pushing for great graphics.