Star Wars has transitioned into this...other thing now, and I guess there's nothing wrong with that. Yes, more people bought tickets for the original trilogy and the word of mouth was better (and the population was millions less in 77-83, so an even greater percentage of people went to see it than saw I-III). BUT there's no doubt it died hard around 1985 in a way that hasn't happened at all this time around. It can't be denied that the people who do love New-Star Wars are clinging to it much more strongly now, and Lucas is responsible for inspiring that loyalty from the post-1997 fans, so you gotta give him credit.

Now, the real test of long-term fan loyalty will be if you see OriginalPrequelTrilogy.com pop up in 15 years!