Least Favorite Part of the Game?

[Flying Arrow]

It's not like fighting random battles is all that "captivating" to begin with. Personally, I find good storytelling and character development to be far more engaging aspects of JRPGs. The flashback was significant in that respect.

The thing with the Kalm section is that its basically having the player explore two entire towns. There's Kalm, and then there's the flashback of Nibelheim in the inn. You explore Nibelheim like any other location with the added layer of narrative frame. Obviously you don't buy anything or do anything to improve your party (which is what towns are used for), but I really dig the exploration aspect of it. Especially the surreal, mysterious vibe it gives off. Also the first time I did the section, the game had its hooks totally in me. I think Square did a good job placing this (for the time) long exposition section. Right after the Shinra HQ stage, which they had to know was like the best dungeon/section they had ever made, ever.

I don't know, I can't really argue someone into liking the Kalm section because there are other lengthy town segments and "story" battles in the other games that I just hate. I like Kalm every time I go through it, but then I go and get frustrated with FFIX's Lindblum sections. Go figure.