I tend to prefer my games more linear as well -- it's why I prefer JRPGs to Western; one of the big reasons I play is for the story, and it's tricky to tell a coherent, non-linear story. I was okay with playing the game multiple times to get the big picture, but I know that's not everyone's cup of tea.

then again I also like boobs. So maybe my opinion is a little crooked there.

Not crooked at all. ;) Actually, it brings up a dimension that often gets lost in these discussions: there are plenty of women attracted to other women in the audience for these games, as well as men who are not attracted to women and/or are attracted to men. I wonder how much, if at all, that's factored into the fanservice. Which fans are they servicing? (So to speak...)