Yeah, that's true. the 1980's had great games, but not many had actual plots. When FFI is considered a landmark for certain story elements, it's easy to see how the attempt on FFII could have holes the size of craters.

As for the 4th party members, I can only remember Minwu being any good, but Josef could at least damage the Adamantoise with physical attacks, and I have a way to make Leon viable in the final dungeons. Ricard and Scott are lifesavers in SoR if you didn't level up Minwu or Josef. Sadly, Leila and Gordon might as well be made of glass, but at least they're quick hitters.

Oh, and yes, Leila and Leon are badass. That's easy to see. It's too bad some people don't like Leon...