so is this game actually worth the hassle? based on what I've read I'm guessing no but feel free to convince me otherwise
It's really not. Dev makes so many weird decisions. Yeah, it's their game and they can make it how they want.
But that doesn't mean it's good. 9 times out of 10, an idea sounds better on paper than implementation. And that's assuming you implemented it well in the first place. Dev seems okay in that regard, which means the ideas just don't match with the game.
True random RNG in some mini-games, others require very specific behavior to complete with zero room for forgiveness or recovery (you know, like virtually EVERY other video game).
Hunger system... You have to spend points to buy food or else it's game over. But here's the thing, you only get points for completing mini-games or doing events. None of which are repeatable to earn more points. On top of that, the player can continue to progress time, thus increasing hunger. Essentially, it is possible to hard-lock yourself and ruin your save. I know, because I did it on purpose to see if the dev considered backup plans, like disabling the hunger system when current content is complete... Nope. Hunger systems rarely do well in games, and the ones that do usually are built AROUND it, rather than tacking it.
Dev also fails to understand their audience. In RPGM porn games, it's generally not a good idea to put mini-games in unless they're simple, straightforward to complete, or can be repeated to farm money. None of the ones in this game do any of that. People are here for the porn. If the dev wants to make a traditional game with RPGM, remove the porn, rename the game, and stick with that. Otherwise, remove the nonsense and keep things simple.
Sure, some ideas are good. The dual protagonist idea works with their approach. You pick one at the beginning and stay with them for that save, and their stories are handled well enough. The game is a bit too heavy on an already overused trope, but it's whatever. NTR fans are used to that. It's also not turn-based combat, but given the frustrations with the rest of the game, that would probably be more ideal, especially if it means we can clear the challenges of enemies and do them at a more sedate pace.