While the combat system is definitely a mess and the backtracking can be tedious, I genuinely loved Rule of Rose. The game's atmosphere, soundtrack, and general aesthetic are absolutely wonderful, and the story is extremely haunting. The presentation of Jennifer's memories through cryptic storybooks and a dilapidated airship works beautifully, and it's interesting to dissect the symbolism of the earlier chapters once you have a full grasp of the story. I think the commentary you get from Jennifer while exploring the final chapter will always stick with me. It's really a shame it was the center of so much controversy and mixed reactions upon its initial release, because it deserved better. Honestly, I think that this game is far more empathetic and nuanced in its portrayal of class and various types of abuse, power dynamics, and trauma than it's given credit for. Even through Jennifer's fragmented memory, the most minor of characters still have a surprising amount of depth and backstory.