The green bar isn't random at all, it's tied to the bobber and the fish's movement pattern so the trap bobber really does make it more forgiving. Sounds like you just needed the right gear and some reps, the game wasn't out to get you.

weakest spot on the whole box" lol its cardboard, tape it and move on

Chain tools snapping on rusty freewheels is just the bike gods reminding you who's boss. Carrying a spare blade or two is way cheaper than buying a whole new tool every time, unless you enjoy burning cash. That seized link probably wasn't going anywhere anyway without a torch and some prayers.