AMETHYSTSTORM'S PROFILE

Menu Systems are throughly uninspired, by and by. Nearly every RPG falls back to the cookie-cutter border/windows style inspired by the 16-bit RPGs of old. Suppose we wanted to break this paradigm, where does one begin?
At it's core, that's a matter of graphics design, but for anyone wanting to begin to tackle such an issue, the designer must first examine the function of the menu. Well, that's simple enough- In theory, menus are designed to serve the player, cater to their needs, desires and obey their every whim.
But for so long, menus have been limited to boxy backgrounds, a list of commands and maybe a styled pointer. While it gets the job done, as an artist, I am bothered by the lameness of this. At the same time, one is forced to consider the potential chaotic effect an aesthetic revamp could have. So, in such a dilemna, we must find out where the priorites lie.

So:
Which do you prefer, simplicity or style?
Is there anything you find yourself wanting from them, but that menu systems often lack?
What are some innovative alternative system formats that could break away from the norm?

Personally, I find it a bit depressing how unoriginal and over looked menu design is. Menus are your loyal servant, your personal butler, your Microsoft Word Paper Cli- oooh, no- but they certainly shouldn't be so neglected. Let's help them help us. So, how may we be of service?