I think you're describing the conundrum that is the general consensus about the game. The narrative is an absolute trip. There is a ton to chew on there. Sadly there are some ROUGH slogs when the plot isn't moving though lol. I personally think the juice is worth the squeeze but some of the dungeon designs are exhausting and the combat (especially in the mechs) doesn't really fully take advantage of the cool ideas it brings together often enough.
The things that you're describing and experiencing that have you bouncing off the game are what keep it a cult classic and not a unanimous instant obvious masterpiece to everybody. You'll probably have to really get sucked in by the story, art direction, and music moreso than the rpg grind, pacing, and mechanics. I bounced off the game a couple times at the same place each time, and when I broke through that area there were enough cool plot pieces moving to get me through but man - I understand where you're coming from lmao.
I'm sure you already know about the game's development history, but if not - you should look up some stuff about it because it's interesting and at least gives some context as to why it's got such a hit and miss execution.
