I listen to them although I'm big on self-inserting too. I also like the comfortable vibe it gives out and it's fun when the VA share a little bit of themselves.
For some reason the cast-talk doesn't bother me with self inserting
I vote pure fluff / comedy! Serious plot is good when im in the mood for it but most of the time I want to relax and just have fun without thinking too hard.
I like to get on with the story so I like visual novel only. Little bit of light gameplay is ok but nothing that makes me grind for hours just to see the next event or plot!
I can take bittersweet or sad endings if the story is good, but it can never beat happy endings for me.
And I think there should always be happy ending route to heal my heart after seeing bad ending.