VF 2 was the first 3D game using texture mapping for 3D character models. VF 3 was the first 3D fighting game using uneven battle stages, which Tekken copied and used in Tekken 4. VF 4 introduced the PKG buttons and the RPS system it still uses. VF 5 again was visually innovative.
Comments
What you're larging referring to is the graphical strides the series delivered which I 100% agree with but gameplay wise throughout the whole series it has stayed consistent to PKG so changing that isn't innovative..
We'll just have to wait and see what RGG deliver but a move away from PKG as a gameplay loop would be a big mistake imo.