I respect your opinion. However, in my experience war stories are generally used as a way to qualify, and are typically reserved between a sponsor and sponsee. It's typically frowned upon to JUST focus on war stories in meetings. Generally the focus is on "What happened, and what its like now". I've never attended an AA meeting that just focuses on the past. Though all meetings are different.

I don't think it's false hope. People are speaking from their own experiences, and their own sobriety is proof to back it up. Sobriety is definitely possible. It can be tough at times, but again, its possible. I personally am cool with going to meetings for the rest of my life if it means that I have a chance at staying sober. An hour a day a few times a week is a small price to pay, in my opinion.

AA isn't perfect, because people are not perfect. I've seen many meetings derailed because of human drama. However, ive seen some legit miracles in my time. The transformations people have made are truly inspiring. For me that's enough. Be well.