That's the problem when you introduce a very flexible system such as that of the Materia system instead of the usual assigned classes. I find FFVII far more playable with FFIX for many reasons, one being that there are many more strategies I have yet to use and I can apply them to any character I wish. There isn't much difference plot wise depending on which characters form your party which allows many gamers the freedom to choose their favourites.

To be honest Aeris was always focused on white magic and healing. As the game progresses I realised that battles were becoming much easier as I acquired more materia thus eliminating her uses and any handy supporting roles she could provide would have been compensated for.

I was never a big fan of Aeris in battle and consequently have no idea what this Limit Break recharger is. So I'd imagine like most first-time players I didn't feel like I was robbed of anything, only just the loss of the companionship of someone with a nice personality (oops sorry)