Um, no. 4th Edition was a dummy version of DnD to cater to the MMO Generation of players, i.e. the kids. First and 2nd Edition were far more versatile as far as DM control and player character development. 3.5 was okay but fourth just stripped the game to a bare bones hack and slash system that needed minitures to help the players "imagine" the scenario they were in. As you said, your preferences are not everyone's. Thank the gods.