I've also on multiple occasions had to send pitches to upcoming games while we were still a year from shipping the current game (as it takes a while to actually

I've also on multiple occasions had to send pitches to upcoming games while we were still a year from shipping the current game (as it takes a while to actually get money, if you want a smooth transition of team members you have to do it gradually and plan it well ahead of time). And when finishing up an existing game is when you have the least person-resources to invest in prototyping new ideas. And if you're a small company/startup without a lot of money you can't chance getting stuck without funding, so play with the cards you were dealt and try what you can...