People are doing the same in warframe. Thrre are literally a bunch of baddies nearby and you're a soace ninja but instead of dushing out some sweet space justice you kick back in the one open world-esque place and chill while fishing. And I love ot.
I used to drive my friend nuts when he introduced me to Need for Speed cause I'd rather explore the landscape than actually race, which didn't really work (that was 1995/96?) so I lost all interest after 5 minutes.
Just thought some of you may want the article link.