I've read that "A recurring problem" unlocks the hard mode Primals but I've also seen conflicting statements on if you have to do them or not...

I'm a mediocre player at best. I've played an MMO before (ESO) but I stick to solo content in that so this is my first time playing in groups (when the MSQ forces me to). I don't like it because it just a massive stress button for me even though I have been pretty fortunate with my PUGs so far (as in no mean people). Anyway, I'm happy to even be considered slightly below average. I've gotten a few commendations but since I play healer and mention I'm new, I think they're mostly just being nice or defaulting their commendation to healer.

I bought the game after the trial period under the impression that hard mode was optional.

Now I've seen some statements that you have to do the primal battles on hard to progress the MSQ? Is that true? Is that the 2.0 - 2.5 grind I've heard about? Or is this old information that no longer applies?

If they're necessary, I'll just have to stop playing unless I can get a story skip potion for cheap (do they have sales for those?).