It's so fun to see such a divided debate over the game. Nothing spells unpopular like a quiet thread.
And, while I appreciate the variety of personal views expressed, some of them give the impression that the poster's opinion is more valid than anyone else's. That's a bit tunnel vision.
For example, I love the pacing in this game. I think it's entirely acceptable and realistic. I don't think people asking for faster pacing are basing it on real life, but with the knowledge that it's a computer game and thus malleable.
I also like running my choices and seeing the effect and then going back later and running a different path. I admit, I have been "trained" by GGGB for this practice, but I am in love with the "skip dialogue" function of Ren'py (I wish I could use this with my sister and her 45 minute phone calls).
It's not necessary for every poster to recognize that there are different likes and faves among the people playing the game. This is an opinion thread as much as it is a discussion thread. Some posts would be a little more readable with a bit more perspective and a little less conviction, though.
Now, for my specific list, with my *personal* reasons:
1) Monica - I freely admit, I'm a MILF man. Monica has the classic busty body with just a hint of matronly curves. I like that she wants the MC as much as he wants her and they both are working towards overcoming the awkwardness of years of familiarity. Not just straight horndog (though the MC is a little too unconflicted for my tastes)
2) Jenna - glasses and big breasts. I'm so shallow. Plus, there's the overcoming resistance thing again. And the whole "discovery of sexuality" that is the sweet form of "corruption".
3) Katie - it's the only relationship that makes sense and that's why it's the least interesting to me. Not unappealing, mind you, as the dialog between them and attraction seems very adult and realistic. But, I play adult games for a tinge of "unrealism" (as realistically as possible, if you understand the seeming contradiction) and Katie feels more like a dating sim. But, I do admit she's pretty hot!
4) Lily - I like redheads and brunettes. Plus, she's daft, which is always fun.
5) Debbie - meh. Seems a little too much "bad girl" trope. Probably fine, just "frisky", but meh for me.
6) Cafe girl - so blah I can't even remember her name. Nice model, but too many girls already in the game.
7) Zarah - Evil. Manipulative to my adorable Monica. Going around others' back to try to corrupt people. Yeah, no interest at all. Actually dislike her more than the mysterious Elaine.
I don't list Elaine here because we haven't really met her. Is she the bitch she seems to be or is there something of real depth causing her to act that way? I'm interested to find out if she's just a banal trope or going to have real content.
And, yup, these are all my opinions. None of you Katie fanatics have anything to fear from me, My influence is exactly equal to yours!