Thanks for starting this topic! I think the essence of HQ_Resi is that player recognition of it in a game then shapes players expectations of the game. As in, if a player recognizes that the indie horror game they are playing is using HQ_Resi without any modifications, then the expectation is that it is a lazily made game. More recently, I think the expectation (and maybe more hope) is that newly made indie games using HQ_Resi will work harder to subvert players expectations.
Viewing post in What do you feel is the essence of HQ_Resi? (Discussion)
Right-right, expectations are a big part of the identity of this asset!
Here's the tricky part: What if a player doesn't know HQ_Resi? It's probably not going to be a big issue in this niche jam, but if someone were to design a game around the expectation that the player knows the house (and that being the main appeal of the game), that would exclude a lot of players from enjoying, I think. At least, in a commercial sense.