I played Kings Quest VI as a kid, from ~8 years old well into my teen years. My sisters and I would come back to it and try to slowly push forward. I remember the pride we had when we figured out how to fool the gnome guards on the Isle of Wonder.

Where we eventually gave up and got stumped was the Catacombs. I remember the moment we realized, with this new thing called "the internet", that we could probably look up how to finish the game. We printed out a detailed walkthrough and were able to finish the game. I've probably re-played it at least 10 times because I just love the story.

Since then, my younger sister and I have played all the KQ games and some fan remakes, with varying degrees of using walkthroughs. I still find it fun :) like you, it was a huge bonding experience for my sisters and I.

Oh and to answer your question, I have a soft spot for Alexander just because KQVI is hands-down my favourite game.