1) I've been playing FF since the early 90s, and started with the original on the NES.

2) If there is a trend I've noticed in my opinions towards the series, it's been a general gradual leveling of my opinion towards the various entries, particularly in regards to negativity towards certain titles. FF2 and 12, in particular, I absolutely detested for the longest time, but I've grown quite fond of the latter, and find myself ultimately indifferent to the former at this point. FF8 is another one I was on the fence about for quite some time, but the game's become a lot like FF5 for me, where I like it more for the combat related aspects than anything else.