Honestly I feel like a vast majority of criticism has come from people who got introduced to the series in NL and liked the more fast-paced feeling of it.
Personally I find that this game is vastly superior to NL. Our culture has become way too focused on instant gratification, and Animal Crossing is a welcome change of pace. I respect Nintendo even more for not stooping to the lowest common denominator and being honest with what Animal Crossing is about. It's not for everyone, and that's what makes it a great game.
My mind is still blown away by the fact you can put furniture outside, move buildings and even landscape! So much more freedom compared to new leaf.
I think Nintendo are updating the game in small increments for each season. Like how the Easter had an update day one. So I think with all of the