The Esper system was always something that could have been handled better, I feel they were simply trying to avoid stat maxing issues from FFII. It was more impressive in 94 than it is now and I'm understanding that it really isn't appealing for most.

I actually love the dark setting and appeal but I adore dystopian stories and the heaviness of the game is something I really love about it because there really wasn't many games that had that feeling back then that wasn't Japan only and even then it's a short list. It was also the first FF to really be hot and heavy with character driven moments. VI's plot is interesting but not much happens to make it compelling on its own. It's the party's personal journey that is the heart of the story and if you can't stomach the game's apocalyptic setting, then you might miss out on their triumphs. One of the game's central themes is finding hope and a reason to live in the bleakest of places.

With all that said, there is nothing wrong not liking the game, we all have our own taste and some things jive more for us than others and when it comes to classic gaming, sometimes it's the setting of our impressionable minds that make it feel grander than the game really is. So don't feel bad about feeling disappointed with it, but understand I'll probably tease you about it like I do with BoB and Bolivar.