I found that playing with others _is_ better than playing alone, especially when the game would have kicked my ass if I'd tried to tackle some of this content by myself.
Hagga Basin South was pretty easy; Wester Vermillius Gap is kicking my ass as a solo player. I need to make better gear, but can't until I get materials sequestered behind difficult content.
I finally get over my survival woes and go on a killing spree in the WVG. Along the way I picked up Planetologist training, and settled down with dreams of a new home.