I would say binary is much more useful and understandable than deciphering the French works that are required for the puzzle. And more over, outbreak prime was an optional path. If you wanted to progress with black armory or get the multiple new exotics, chances were that you would have had to do the puzzle.

But see there's the disconnect. You'll justify one over the other based on your preference/ opinion. I like both methods regardless. If the puzzle is finished and you didn't enjoy the process then you feel it's a bad puzzle. I like cryptic puzzles. I see nothing wrong. To each their own though.