But have you ever tried just using flour like normal? Cornstarch gives it a weird kind of slick coating I don't like... it gets too crispy in a fake way. The texture is off and it doesn't brown right for a proper pan sauce. Honestly, it's just a trend that doesn't work as well as the old method.

Yeah, that "marketing is louder" idea is a common take, but I don't see it that way. Your knife experience sounds frustrating, but one bad product doesn't mean all pro claims are empty. Sometimes you just get a lemon, or the tool needs a different kind of care. I've had the opposite happen, where a cheap thing failed fast and the "serious" version lasted years. It's not always just noise.

Yeah, it's getting old fast.

Burnt wings are a sign of a bad kitchen. Seth_green85 has the right idea asking for a redo. Paying for food means it should be done right.

Your way works for your group, that's all that matters. Some people forget games are supposed to be fun.