There is certainly a difference. Something could be well made and have merit and just not be your cup of tea. That's not an insult toward said thing and its not saying you don't think its cool. I think that's what he was saying.
WAAAAAAAAH *is so incredibly offended* *runs away and cries in a corner*
Seriously though, I think you brought up a good point. The things a lot of old fans don't like are appealing to new people who either don't know anything about DMC, or don't like it. I've been saying it since the game's announcement that I am convinced that Capcom set out to get new fans because the original fan base was to demanding. Capcom is basically screwing the original fan base over in favor of a new audience.