I also played 1 and 2 ages ago and I couldn't remember much. I read some recaps of the story but I'd kinda forgotten how to battle haha. I decided not to replay it though and just dove into chapter 3 and it was fairly forgiving in reminding you what to do.

I agree, it just goes to show that all the super realistic graphics and stuff are not necessary to make a game good. The world is just so alive. I get the most intense nostalgia from it haha!