I don't want to get into a debate on sandbox definition on who likes what, it all boils down to people stating what they like and dislike at the end of the day.
All I'm saying is commercially the whole setup now is not working. That's a fact, not my opinion unfortunately. I understand sometimes what developers have as their vision conflicts with the market.
You are of course entitled to continue your course for the sake of art or hobby, just don't expect things to turn around financially just by changing a couple of nuts and bolts like adding side quest or giving an option to make the mini games easier.
I suppose it's time to take a stand on things - money or vision. I'm just a spectator offering feedback on the possibility of introducing a VN mode to try and see if it's possible to turn things around. If you still prefer to pursue your vision, then all the best as long as you don't need the additional income for all the work put in.
Cheers.