Okay, let me try…
Final Fantasy VIII is a better game than Final Fantasy VII, and is arguably the best in the franchise, yet it’s still treated like a bottom-tier entry because it didn’t try to be Final Fantasy VII-2. Its poor reputation largely stems from decades-long bandwagoning and the stupidest of reasons. (You “draw” magic, oh the humanity! Never mind the finely crafted story, stunning visuals and excellent soundtrack.)