This story was made by a 14 year with that mind set.
I didn't know 14 year olds made a story that made cash lol. Seriously. To piggyback what John could be going on about, the protagonist tends to have 2 or more things about him we like as a dynamic character.
I'm not Kirito, but is it wrong to cheer him on when he was desperately fighting to save those he cared about? Asuna is the catalyst for him to change. Before he was a loner and an outcast with not much purpose. Just slice stuff up and beat the game to be free. No other goals besides that.
His first guild, he lied about his high level because he wanted to fit in and be accepted. He wanted to fight alongside them. However, his first guild met with an unfortunate end. Thus, he goes back to being a wishy washy loner mercenary or so. Right there, I made a connection for when I was a high school kid trying to fit in. Thus, I can definitely understand what Kirito is going through.
Anyways, Asuna soon meets him and lo and behold, he has a goal after he beats the game with Asuna. He wants to care for her as to we want to care for someone who likes you inside and out.
Xermuht said it best when all they needed to do was be more inclusive so things don't feel rushed or forced in plot. That was what I disliked in the second half. First half needed some touch-ups, yet it has evoked enough emotions from me to make it worthwhile. Hence those examples of relating myself in Kirito's shoes.
If this were a 14 year old story, it wouldn't have made it to this thread as some anime to discuss about. This wasn't some amazing anime, but it was far from the insults you're giving it. If anything, I think you're just making a big hyperbole out of it like some people love to do when they feel their high standards aren't met.