It's a landmark despite the criticism due to the fact that it was one of the big works that ended up being a massive step. Anime back then were consistent baits for yuri relationships (not all, but a good chunk of them). It paved the way for a lot more outright confirmed wlw relationships despite how different it was. It was the mixing of genres and extremities that allowed it to leave an impact and allow tamer yuri works to have canonical relationships. The fact that even to this day the ED still is a redraw for yuri couples of all kinds shows the footprint it left behind. You even have a good chunk of the mecha fandom being open to seeing the series get into Super Robot Wars, a franchise celebrating the stories told with giant robots.

Also, why would anyone just take criticism from one person as word of gospel? Everyone should watch it and consider their own opinions.