What integrity did it have as a story? It had a rinse and repeate recyclable plot and its best selling factor was its ability to sell at the time, and general popularity making it an easy classic.
It's not some complex story that was praised by critics for its depth and internal value, rather it was praised by kids growing up in the series as one of the first, and eventually most influential anime series to date.
It's on the same level as pokemon just about, with a slightly less.... "30 minute advertisement" feel.
My point is, having a reboot is in no way a insult to the series, since it's actual plot was not its claim to fame. It's viewers were.