An installer does look more professional than a zip file.
I'd like to call in to question your point about gfx drivers having the newest directX. I'd say that it doesn't really matter whether the drivers have the newest DX packed with it. Considering 99% of games say update your drivers and even if you have the newest drivers they still check what directX you have and install the one that works with their game (zomg installer makes this process easy on the devs) unless you have newer that is known to work with your game.
I agree with your point of a game launch being fragile but if you get to the point where you're seriously worrying about whether your user base is going to freak out about whether you release with an installer or a zip file you've got your priorities mixed up. I'd say the devs are more worried about hitting their launch date without too many hiccups than ******* off the 2 people in the world who care about whether they released a zip or installer.
In short, your complaint is insignificant.
CommandoPoop
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