I like MPF but I know what you mean with some of the syntax and training your brain to certain things

Sometimes I debate rewriting a lot of certain things with a better naming convention now that I’m more familiar with the ins and outs of MPF.

I guess I’m in the equivalent of your stage two. I rewired a game and still learning how to make a fun game in MPF before biting off something more custom. I figured what’s the point of making something totally custom if I can’t program it to my liking (Though of course I have some ideas planned out and already started acquiring a bunch of spare parts for it)

Someone once gave me the advice of its more important to finish a project than to try to perfect your first project.

Best of luck on your journey.