I've had also an adopted cat for 14 years - and he was this standard cat - an asshole. Still was very loved.
But even if adopting is very nice - you get a cat for free and help the poor animal, me and my wife wanted a maine coon for a long time, so we bought one.
Together with us for two years. And he's like a dog - plays fetch, and when you call his name, he comes to you. I have deep-ish voice, and he certainly hears me and understands words like his name, "negalima" (can't do that/not allowed in lithuanian), and he certainly knows the word "skanėstas" (treat). He's so unbelievably friendly, anytime I tap on my lap when I'm sitting, if he sees that - he comes and curls on lap instantly.
He's also very gentle. I was surprised - when playing, he very very rarely bites bare hand. All cats that I know have no problems biting and clawing your bare hand when playing. Funny when friends come over - oh my god, he looks dangerous - big and has this evil look. Gentle giant indeed.
Oh Silicon Valley, you are not the world.