I think what you’ve said is true. People interviewing typically opt for something they can apply to everyone. Therefore your side projects may be unfairly discounted.

Think you need to approach interviewing as a sport and consider how to get good at it separately . In the sport of interviewing your side projects are a fantastic asset but you need to know how to deploy your assets tactically. Ie can’t just point at github and wait for the contract in the mail :)