Also, why don't these maps look alike at all? If we're directly comparing the same outlooks.

Comparing things against it is really good information. For example here is the typical Summer developing Strong El Nino pattern vs the current CPC forecast

Hard bust in your area! Wonder what their outlooks were for spring 2023 and 2022?

The strength of this Nino is kind of exciting! Uncharted waters!

Reddit is a pantheon to the dead internet theory. I deleted my account after I was genuinely mass downvoted for the crime of not wanting to die trying to overthrow the government, using the gun I "obviously have" since I'm an American and every American has a gun