When a DM creates a Forgotten Realms campaign, because he does not follow the exact formula Ed Greenwood uses, does that mean it is not a Forgotten Realms campaign? If a DM uses the Underdark source material for the basis of his campaign but does not directly follow it, does that mean the campaign is really not in the Underdark?
If that DM is being entrusted with the generational flagship representation in video game media of an entire franchise, to be that which conveys it to a global audience, and yet which shows such an extreme disregard, lack of respect for, and even overt disdain and mockery of the strongly established lore of the material they are being asked to represent, YES.
It's nice when simple questions have simple answers.
