Well the developers did say (and I'm paraphrasing here) that they were deliberately making the graphics in RA3 more "cartoonish" in nature, so as to help emphasize the game's campy, over-the-top feel. I'm not sure I agree with that decision -- in fact, I'm more in agreement with you on this matter -- but I can sort of understand where they're coming from. Personally, I don't think it's necessary, but then I'm probably not EA's target demographic either.