Sure, but zoning has some effect - developers will build to maximize their profit within what is allowed by zoning.

• if zoning allows multiple units, they maximize profits by building as many as they can
• if zoning requires less parking, they may maximize profits by replacing some parking space with more units (assuming sufficient transit to allow them to sell)
• if zoning creates areas of higher density, a town center type of area can create a synergy that draws more people, more profit.
• while not everyone wants to live in a town center or a large building, more housing supply can drive down prices for everyone: supply and demand

I’m not claiming zoning is sufficient nor does it act quickly but it can be a tool for improving livability, setting the conditions for developers to profit more by building what the town benefits from.

Currently zoning is mostly a weapon enforcing the status quo, but it doesn’t have to be