Not being quickly over does not equal the game having a soul, nor does an extremely long game equal not having a soul.
The preference for shorter games doesn't make you a connoisseur of video games... it means you either don't have the time, or don't have the patience for longer games... either because of work or ADD.
Personally I am all for longer games, larger open worlds... it's not a matter of having a soul or not, it's a matter of wanting more for my money. Video games aren't cheap, and if I am going to plunk down 60 dollars or more, that game better keep me entertained for a long bloody time... not only with a long storyline, but with plenty to do beyond the storyline. GTA, Fallout3, Fallout New Vegas, Saints Row 2... these games were worth every bloody penny I spent on them. A game where I can complete the main story in under a week.... and there is simply nothing to do after that.... not worth the price of toilet paper. And don't tell me "start the game oper again" because fuck that, I heard that story, I played that shit.... there isn't going to be a significant enough difference, nor a reason to play it again, when everything I am able to accomplish is lost because the game just ends. This is why I no longer buy anything but sandbox, racing, or fighting games... they aren't worth the money or time to me.
I don't think the guy understands the difference between Japan and China...
I too am all for longer games, though what if the game presents a 'branch' point, so that the players who want to get it over and done, can, while we carry on the 'scenic toute'?