Recreating an old match 3 game called chop sushi - want idea validation

https://youtu.be/BRv3pSP6XJ4?si=u4JOv3qemOwP86Vt

I recently came across an old mobile match-3 style game called Chop Sushi (originally by THQ). The core gameplay revolves around a sushi theme with fast interactions, simple mechanics, and a very casual, pick-up-and-play loop. The game is no longer actively developed, but the idea stuck with me because it felt more reflex-based and quick compared to many modern match-3 games that focus heavily on meta-progression, energy systems, and long sessions.

My intention would be to recreate the core idea, not clone assets or UI, but re-imagine it with modern polish — smoother animations, better feedback, and possibly shorter, more intense rounds rather than long, grindy levels. I’m especially interested in whether there’s still appetite for this kind of lightweight, skill-leaning puzzle experience in a market dominated by slower, progression-heavy match-3 titles.

I’m aware that the match-3 genre is extremely saturated, which is why I’m hesitant to spend serious time on this without external feedback. From a player’s point of view, does this type of game still sound appealing today? Would you try something like this if it emphasized speed, responsiveness, and simple rules over monetization mechanics?

I’m not asking whether this would be commercially successful, but whether the core concept itself feels worth exploring in 2025. Any honest feedback — positive or negative — would be appreciated.