Current chemistry's main probable issue

[Lord_earthfire]

I actually don't think the aimlessness is the primary issue, though it does add to it. The big thing that would, in my mind, make it more fun to engage with, is if I had any guarantee that if I put 30+ minutes developing a chem, that I have some sort of safety net for the production of it.

What about side-products that you can turn somewhat easy into intermediates?