Is it worth it for someone who can only buy a ticket for Fright Fest alone and can't rope drop?
it definitely would depend on the day, but as you know all too well with HHN, crowds/waittimes are random.
With that being said, you should be able to do it all if you stay until close. Just a guess, I'd say at least 4hrs minimum needed to be safe
Also I would be a first timer (not just to the event but to the park as well) so any advice is wanted
Been there, experienced that (including Knott's). Magic Mountain is BIG! It is also NOT flat, so there is cardio hill (Samurai Summit) or the Tatsu stairs to get up to Willoughby's & Sewer houses. (Also ride Ninja). You can cheat & take the Honda Express Tram up/down IF it is operating (that's always the issue). Next to Tatsu is Conjuring.
The park is essentially one big circle with a few dead-end off-shoots like DC (SAW & Stranger Things access?) & Screampunk (OZ sz) where Colossus/Scream are at. Metropolis is just a dead end plaza, but Riddler & Justice League are there. Plus I believe the access to TrT.
Hopefully this isn't too confusing & is somewhat helpful. I highly recommend studying the park/event map beforehand. My first time, I couldn't figure out how to get back to Willoughby's & thought the stairs went to Tatsu lol.
Six Flags is a very dark park at night. I'm sure
@Rideguy70 &
@Jerroddragon can add onto this since they've gone (twice?)