^^that sentiment comes out a fair bit (see thread about new Boardman)
It’s only true on a surface level though: geometry, wheel/tyre size, improved componentry tech, are the main and significant differences. If it was just a cynical re-hash of a 90’s bike it’d be a fair comment, but it’s a long way from that. Having an All Terrain Bike developed in a considered way that covers many bases, is a good trend to be coming through.
The other difference is that 90’s mtbs were an all rounder by default, they were marketed as ‘mountain’ bikes and that’s where their development ultimately went over the following decades. These are being marketed for exactly what they look to be good for, and the more the better.
I’d still like a Doggler or Dualist too – especially if it was on C2W.