I loved Strange Journeys story and atmosphere and even the good old fighting and making friends with enemies and stuff. Even the first person dungeon crawling was charming and fun. But the encounter rate and difficulty spike between areas begs for grinding and it turned me off as I got about halfway through exploring the second area I have a weak tolerance for these amazing games

Haven't tried IV yet, perhaps it will be the one that clicks. I know they are designed to be trouble. Just have to fund one with an angle or mechanics that feel worth it or enjoyable or something. My tastes can be annoyingly stud and picky sometimes

The next handheld game I get will almost certainly be Virtues Last Reward, SMTIV can be the next one after that. Its still readily available and affordable