[Blog]
Its not my blog. Its a good series though. This is my blog.
https://princeofnothingblogs.wordpress.com/
[High Level]
I think its definetely not meant for everyone, certainly not for newcomers, but its easier and more fun then it looks. If you ever get deeper into oldschool D&D its worth a shot. Fwiw when I ran Slyth Hive, some of my playtesters were totally new to AD&D, especially high level AD&D and they loved it.
[More focused OSR]
I see it as a correction. It used to be more focused, now its grown so broad it has become meaningless, so its time to refocus and go back to what it was all about when it began.
[Rules-lites]
Hahah I wrote a medium-vicious diatribe about rules-lites that I named 'the Rules-Lite Sickness' or something along those lines.
https://princeofnothingblogs.wordpress.com/2023/04/26/the-rules-lite-sickness-ga...
I started one game earlier then you, with 2nd edition. I like the lighter nature of the OSR over 3.5e too, but I do think the current rules lite trend is a little ridiculous, and there is definetely a point where you start to seriously cut into the substance of the game. I too enjoy the game part of rpgs much more then the narrative or role-playing part.
[Preferences]
I like my D&D to be challenging, versatile, occasionally complex and about player skill. I think there is an immense wealth of material and experience that has been built up over decades of play that can help people make better stuff.
FYI, if you liked the collection, I have a second one up on Drivethru which is also free. I hope you get some use out of them.
https://preview.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/379533/no-artpunk-vol-1