5e may have dumped a bunch of 4e things, but it kept a bunch too, even if it often appears embarrassed to admit that. Coupled with the aforementioned return of the OGL, this makes preserving 4e a LOT easier, and for that I am genuinely grateful.
BECMI Dungeons and Dragons 11 Advanced Dungeons and Dragons, 2nd Edition 1 Dungeons & Dragons, 5th Edition 14
2e evolved the game away from too much table consultation. And, it kept the satanic panickers at bay with some subtle (and not so subtle) changes so the hobby could stay shelved and accessible in certain stores.