I remember that when Star Trek Online was first announced, it was VERY different than what it is now... and it actually more closely resembled what you were describing. Each character would be free to do some of their own hero stuff in the galaxy but also be on 'hub ships' where you were a smaller part of a much larger whole, participating in shipboard stuff. Then it changed hands or somesuch, and the new leadership said, "Nobody just wants to be some random person on a starship! Everyone wants to be the captain!"
To which I said, "No, actually... ._. I think I would enjoy just vibing on a supercool space ship with my Fully Automated Luxury Gay Space Communism lifestyle." So it would be interesting to see someone try to do STO as it was originally intended.
I LOVE The Long Dark, but I do wish they'd have different seasons if you survive long enough. Something tells me that even summer would be no picnic on that island with the crazed wildlife and geomagnetic storms. Maybe for a sequel someday?
Also I admit that I like playing non-story games with the wildlife turned down to mimic more reasonable behaviors. Then it really does become more of you against the elements, rather than you against crazy wolves. @_