No, actually; a different art team is completely relevant. Any team cannot re-create the same style. Know why? Because they're not the same bloody team. Also, yes. It's because they want to confrom to the norm, not because these graphics have a low entry bar for computers, and thus allow more people to play the game. You got it.
If so then the question must come up.
Should you at all be touching a world reknowned series that isn't yours, AND you are incapable of replicating the same atmosphere and artistic style that specifically made the original series great? I'm pretty sure that should be pretty high up on the list of things to work on.
"So guys, I have a great idea. Lets make a ES mmo, but becausewe are incapable of replicating it's artistsic style we are going to have to redo it infavor of the more common mmo style. Oh and we also can't really replicate the atmosphere. Oh and by the way we need to make sure the world DOESN'T reace to what a pler does. Otherwise one persons descision could completely change/destroy everyone elses gaming experience. Oh and I forgot one more thing the gameplay will be completely difference than the original seriees as this one will be in third person instead of first person which is how most people played, as it allowed people to really get into their character and it simply made ofr a better gaming experience. But other than that guys lets go out and make a game that will make the original series proud. Andby proud I mean lets just steal the name because thisgame has absolutely nothing in common with the original series what-so ever."