Grinding and repetition are elements of gameplay, whether you like them or not, and whether they're well done or not. I think it's a matter of taste. Personally, if it's just about watching a story without any interaction, I'd rather watch a movie or read a book.
Concerning my game, I'm personally not satisfied with the affection system with the characters, but I haven't really had time to revise it (and at this stage, it's unlikely to change).
As for "a few animations," considering there are more than 1,400 divided into 45 scenes, I find the comment misplaced. Assuming an average length of 2 seconds per animation, that's nearly 45 minutes of animations.
That's the way it goes I guess. People come, take a quick look, and then flunk unfairly a project that's being offered for free. Easy way.