I'm using it and the web interface on the desktop too. I truly like it but until it becomes an SMS app as well, it just seems redundant. On the flip side, Duo is amazing. I think they need to combine Duo, Allo and Android Messages.
I don't know if I would call it great but it was better than their current dysfunctional strategy. If Google had stuck with Hangouts and continued to improve it they could have had a iMessage competitor. Of course allowing Hangouts on iOS kinda messed that up.it was called Hangouts. and it was great.