I thought both games were excellent, but yes there was definitely something about BOTW that set it apart. In addition to what you’ve said, I think it’s partially that BOTW was such a unique experience the first time through - little things like the stamina meter for climbing, the cooking to help you craft items that warm you up etc. Discovering these features and setting off in whichever direction you fancied was a joy. TOTK didn’t have this same joy, as I already knew about these mechanics. And it felt like there was much more of a push to get the player to go in a specific direction, rather than leaving the exploration up to them.

I reckon they probably did the best job they could’ve with a sequel, but it was never going to be possible to live up to BOTW.