So why is brayflox "hard" actually easier than normal?

[Yurimi]

I don't understand the comparison though. Both NM and HM are easy. The only difference is, you can outgear the other.

I think the point the OP is getting at is that the mechanics of normal were more plentiful and punishing than the mechanics of HM so the order of them appearing is backwards (the dragon at 50 would be a lot more challenging with its poison and regen than knocking some bombs for example)