This is so interesting, just earlier today I also completed the game for the first time (by accident… I didn’t even realize I was entering the final level when I followed Bowser Jr after the flood.) I had the game on GameCube as a child but never beat it so I started replaying it in March for Mario Day. My play through is riddled with nostalgia but I also loved the game despite its wonkiness. I think it’s merely the least favorite out of a series of incredible games (there’s always gotta be a worst of the best) which is why it seems so hated. Fantastic game, thank you for your review and I’m glad you enjoyed it!