I had a really good experience with Coursera... In fact it's where I learned to code.
I don't think I understand the comparison to video games. Yes, sometimes games will simulate work, but that's not at all like online education simulating education.
It has its issues, but motivated students can and do learn online.
I like Coursera and I'm quite experienced. Their courses don't enforce the rigor of a college course; practically anyone could pass them without reviewing the content through sheer brute force. So I feel like the certificates themselves are worthless, but the actual content is good enough to learn from if you put forth the effort.
I don't think I understand the comparison to video games. Yes, sometimes games will simulate work, but that's not at all like online education simulating education.
It has its issues, but motivated students can and do learn online.