Apparently the root of the argument is that we have different definitions for 'unfair'. I find patterns unfair if they punish someone for trying to read them and promote learning them like some kind of automated machine instead -- these are shmups, not puzzle games. The more the pattern forces you to 'learn' it, the higher your skill level has to be in order to read it on the fly. You need to be stupid good to be consistent at UBS with reading alone (ergo, without a touch of luck involved). That to me is an indication of an unfair pattern.
Ha ha ha. Sorry, just couldn't resist.
Ahem...shmups are difficult games. They take both a lot of innate skill, developed skill, and quick reflexes to play effectively. However, while skill is a large part of how a shmup works, there's a limit to what skill will bring you. I put a large amount of credit for how I got to where I am in the series today to how I took the time to analyze attacks. Every non-spell, every spell, are their own world, especially in the photography games. You must learn the rules of each card, experiment to see what works and what doesn't, and develop new skills to aid you. THAT is how you get better, not some abstract concept of "experience." So no, I would disagree. These are puzzle games - they're just ones that test your creativity instead.
However, I'll go ahead and agree with you that games where pure memorization is required are pretty dumb, if only because it ruins the replay value. However, I implore you to find one that fits that description. And no, I do not accept IN as an answer, because the bosses are still quite random.
