Differences between Easy/Normal/Hard

[neko_miyuu]

From what I can tell, having done both Easy and Normal, the difference is the Ranks of the naturally spawning monsters.

Easy: Rank 1, 2 and 3 monsters spawn naturally.
Normal: Rank 2, 3 and 4 monsters spawn naturally.
Hard(Guess): Rank 3, 4 and 5 monsters spawn naturally.

Because of how the kill enough Rank X spawn a Rank X+2 monster system works spawning Stars/NM would be much easier in Hard.

Have done HM yesterday with my FC. I confirm that you naturally find a LOT of IV and V (and III in the spawing areas).
However we felt a bit disappointed because we had 5 gold chests each with only 1 210 gear, which is what my friends have been doing in NM. And we had a full 24 FC alliance + other parties joining us for quite a bit. Although it's very possible we missed something that would yield better/more rewards so we are looking for info on other HM experiences.