I think it's wrong to approach Smuggler's Run as a ride. Instead, I would think of it more as an experience. In real life (not really, but you get the idea), one wouldn't be guaranteed a thrilling ride on the Millennium Falcon, absent repeated crashes. I think the variability of the ride makes it more special.
I think a lot of the criticism comes from it being, by its nature, a competitive and frustrating experience. Especially being frustrated when you're not in complete control. Arguably, that's what the designers intended.
The comparison to Star Tours is rather nonsensical, in my opinion. This is unlike any other attraction out there.