So I was watching today's Phantasy Star II stream that sparked a realization that nearly broke my heart. The game is unplayable by modern standards, which just hurts to admit. I've attempted to play and beat this game as a child and multiple times as an adult and never succeeded.
What I found so bothersome is that the very way the game is built is now intolerable to me. The limited inventory, random battles and even random enemies the party members attack would infuriate me. Moreover, Maxx spent three hours grinding just to be able to become strong enough to complete one of the beginning dungeons.
Such a punishing experience is simply something I'm not willing to put up with anymore. Having my nostalgia tinted glasses so violently ripped away was jarring. On the plus side, it won't stop me from watching Maxx muddle through the game, though.