When it comes to hunting with shotgun slugs, I think times actually HAVE changed, quite a bit! I attribute much of this to states that do not allow you to use real rifle cartridges, so guys have demanded much better accuracy and performance out of their slug guns. Here in Indiana, seasoned hunters won't settle for only shooting 60 yards because they know modern guns/ammo are capable of so much more...three times that range, in many cases!
Personally, I think "killer combination" is a perfect way to put it, as my experience suggests that each particular gun/barrel will have a rate of twist that greatly favors a given load, whether it is a full-bore slug or sabot. With a modern slug gun, I would do the research and then work with projectiles in the right weight range until you find something that doesn't have you worrying about shots in the 150 yard range. It might be an expensive proposition, shooting those $2 loads until you find the right one, but when a great buck steps out at 100+, you'll be glad you have a round that you can confidently pull the trigger on.