could you tell me what alternates you found? I tried to use this too and was disappointed that it's not working.
I just tested it with the latest version of MV and it still works.
A couple of potential issues: Did you make sure that the Balloon ID in the plugin parameters points to a visible balloon animation? I've seen some people having balloon graphics with empty cells.
Also did you set your events up with either the top comment or Note as described here? https://forums.rpgmakerweb.com/index.php?threads/mz-event-interaction-hint.15906...
If none of the above help, it might stem due to a conflict with another plugin that somehow deals with Events.