could as easily run it in an emulator
For some the "point" is just solving a problem, however that happens.
For others it's an art form that gives them a sense of worth, using their knowledge and experience to do something special that not just anyone can do.
Neither is right or wrong; people just have different goals.
e.g. https://github.com/rdaum/rekursiv/ done on a whim based on a book i've had on the shelf for 25 years
it's just insane what you can get done these days.
i just think with this thing in particular, it being in x86 assembly means you're not really "porting" but rewriting. and then why that and not something else? :)
I have things running in my homelab which are awesome and amazing and useful and one of a kind. It is a great feeling.