I gave up on The Hard Way because of the overt pushing of the developers views into the gameplay. Saying that, there was a lot I didn't really like about it.
Outside that one, I can't say I've really been aware of it. Maybe I've been brainwashed and just not noticed?
Leap of Faith. Nothing else comes close.
STWA : The Writer is a classy game in slightly similar vein.
For playability and enjoyment, Vae Victis, but it doesn't have the depth of the others (and wouldn't claim to).
Depends how much I'm enjoying the game: I'll often paly through without it them go round again and use ti to make sure I cover all the content.
Unless the choices or paths are so obscure or tortuous that You need one to get anywhere.
Faerin's games are exemplary in how to build in a hint system.
I coulnd't get into Lab Rats no matter how often I tried. 23 Sisters didn't do it for me either, it was just too overtly stupid.
Some of the others I didn't know, a few to try here.
I like the art, the models, the overall style. Not a game you'd play for the depth of story. Something new for breakfast is about as exciting as it gets.