Obviously without programmers there would be no games. No one would be able to write the interactive side of the game and without that you’re left with a bunch of art assets. Sure you could make a great CGI movie but that’s not a game.
That’s why the most successful developers are ones started by programmers. It’s key that if you’re starting a game project, you must have a programmer attached whom knows what they’re doing. While money can be put on art, it can’t be put on code.
Programmers are invaluable.
Good observation, your ideas are right on.