I would consider the Chev 6.0 liter LS engine to be a “great engine” and to me would make it worthwhile to buy a used Chevy 3/4 ton instead of a half ton to get it. It never had direct injection or AFM, but did have VVT and had aluminum heads with a simple 2 valve per cylinder OHV design. It also had a cast iron block. It made 352 HP and 383 lb ft of torque. I found it had a ton of passing power without having to exceed 4,000 rpm. Mine currently has 240,000 miles and although the alternator, and power steering pump have been replaced it still has the original water pump and the engine has never been opened up for any repairs. Same said for the 6L90 transmission. It too has 240,000 miles and still shifts well with 50,000 mile service intervals.
The 6.0’s successor is the 6.6 liter with all the same attributes but now has direct injection, again avaiable with the 3/4 ton but not the half ton.