I wouldn't call the stadium's location or the ease to get there "peripheral"
The stadium is a short walk from the PATH, a slightly longer walk or a shuttle bus from Newark Penn. Right off I-280, open or garage parking for $10.
going to some away games in cities with downtown stadiums ... huge difference in the game day experience.
What cities would that be? I have been to every stadium in the East, except Orlando. Only ATL could be considered downtown, and no one lives near it. Plus, despite the hype, it is a crap venue.
In the West, I have been to Dallas, Houston, KC, LA Galaxy, Portland, & Seattle. Only Houston & Portland could be considered downtown. Again, no one lives near them.