I don't think so.
Processor speed, memory capacity, high speed network, handling lots of very
capable and miniature and cheap sensors and actuators, and AI and software
simulation were nowhere then, nor were capable, low cost reusable rocket
engines.
And as these became available, almost nobody in aerospace had the sense or
focus or motivation to do stinking anything with them.
The few that tried could not rally the funds or organizational capability
to move with determination.
It did not take a "saint" to do it, kids. It took a software hardware and
physics savvy gaming nut with a very effective rapid development sense who
also understood the physics of money very well, and was driven. DRIVEN.
The best games simulate reality with deep and accurate physics. When you
can very accurately simulate a real situation at faster than real time, you
can see into the future. When you can update "now" with accurate and fast
sensors, and correct control inputs quickly, then you can "fix" the future
so you get the real outcome you want despite unpredictable variables.
Why has Starship flown and landed so few times? Got the data needed to
define and prove the physics of landing sim. Ready to expand the envelope
to launch and reentry.
No devine "influences", just physics.
