@tektrader For the record, I'm not a fan of this game's art; but I'm certainly not averse to 2d. I think the problem is that you're asserting 'polished 3d graphics' = 'best aesthetic for all games'. Some people actually like 2d. Even black and white 2d (Limbo)! Others enjoy the retro pixellation. Different people like different art.

It's like looking at an impressionist painting and saying, 'That painting would be better if it was realistic!' It would be different, but better? Probably not. Some 2d games are gorgeous. Realism or 3d wouldn't improve them, and if anything might destroy some of their charm.

Having said that, there are also obviously practical reasons why indie developers might choose 2d art. But that doesn't mean it can't look good, and it also doesn't necessarily imply a 'lack of talent' or 'laziness'.