>>50276257
Well, I used to like Maribel more than Renko because I thought her ability was more interesting, we are more different personality-wise, and I though a psychological perspective was more interesting to approach Gensokyo from than a physical one also because I'm a contrarian and Renko is more popular
But even then, I felt the Hifuus were too peripheral in general for my taste. My first favorite 2hu, who remained my favorite before Renko, was Alice, and I felt that Alice's condition as an outside worlder moving to Gensokyo was way more hopeful than Renko's future. Alice is also more girly and has the same charming autistic behavior.
Really, it isn't my tastes or opinions on these characters that has changed, but the value I give to each trait. I've come to appreciate Renko's boyishness, particular type of autism, and common interests with me more and more.