If "works as a standalone adventure film" is enough for you, than you are certainly ahead of me.
It's supposed to be this very intentional play up to the WWII, and sci Fi serials Lucas grew up watching, I'd agree that empire is MJ much better film, but due to how breezy and iconic the imagery and story of the first movie is its my favorite in the series. Luke watching the twin suns, the daring escape from the death star, and then the ending starship are all so doing.
There's a line of dialogue in the second chapter of the star wars audio drama which gets why it's my favorite in the seryes.
With an abruptness he will find difficult to believe, Luke Skywalker's life is about to change beyond his wildest dreams, as he's swept up in the the bitter war between Rebel Alliance and Empire, and soon a captive princesses desperate plea for help, The final quest of a legendary hero, and the key to the empire's most awesome weapon will be decided by the actions of a young farm boy from tatooine.
I can watch New Hope forever.