I think that's bull. V had a very enjoyable story, with good characters, a great support cast and a menacing villain. The whole "crystals are rehashed from the NES titles!" is kind of a moot argument, since IV had crystals, too, and was lauded for its story. Besides, rehash doesn't mean it's bad.

I think the reason people feel the story is weak (though it isn't) is because the gameplay is so far into excellence territory.