I agree 100% - the Minibrute provides real insight to what synthesis is and i wish i'd purchased one before buying my other synths as i'd have had much better understanding of how to make proper use of them. That said, once you've tried the Minibrute the appeal of non-analogue synths rapidly diminishes - it really is that good.
Sure if you have a good ear. I have recreated the PAC Man sound as close as I can get it. Using the LFO as a second wave you can set it it as an out of tune source. You over lay the same crunching sound with a little out of tune.