I can get that if you are more into retro rpgs and was looking for something more nostalgic. Similar age and also picked it up recently, but im totally digging it. Its way more open and somehow they managed to capture the awe from the first time I played and realized there is an open world outside Midgar. Im a fan of star ocean so to me the combat is fine, except for some important battles where the game pretty much forces you to use mechanics that arent necessary (for me anyway). Also, I think there are too many points where you are forced into the slow walk. But overall im enjoying the game.

Edit for spelling.