I agree, especially when I can't really see the differences. 2D 32-bit pixel based games are often harder to make look better. At least to me. The jump is not nearly as impressive as it was going from say, Super Mario Bros 1 through 3 on the Nintendo Entertainment System to the remakes on the Super Nintendo. That was a recognizable graphics jump.
Now, 3D stuff, I have no doubt can easily be made to look better. Take the Croc remake - it is easy to see the remake looks better, and on top of that, they fixed the controls - the biggest problem I had with the original game.
So far, I am not aware of anything, other than graphics, that they are improving with this Gex Trilogy release. For me, HD texture packs and maybe a smoother engine is not worth the asking price. I am not going to crap on the fanfare of others though, I am sure there are plenty of fans that are excited for this and for them, I am happy.
RE: Gex Trilogy Announced, Interesting Extras Available