Linear, linear, linear

[Shurrikhan]

Probably because difference is refreshing, until you realize how much you lose because of it. Grass is always greener or something like that.

But, what was actually lost, unless one considers any additional time taken in traversing the terrain as an absolute downside?

Even at the worst count, HW+ zones have (at least) as many features per zone as do ARR zones. They just also happen to have more space between them, which can come with advantages is building an aesthetic and making the zone seem more realistic.