Yeah, I can relate. The character quests are very, very tedious. But I liked the game up until that point

1. Baten Kaitos 1 + 2
2. Tales of Symphonia
3. RE4
4. RE 1 Remake
5. Zelda Wind Waker
6. Pikmin 1 +2
7. FE PoR
8. MK DD
9. MGS TTS
10. Chibi Robo

I really liked DQ11. Im intruiged how Tales of Destiny 2 is similar to it. I'm currently playing Destiny 1 DC.

Remake is prettier and the gameplay is snappier. The DLC is way better in Remake. OG is fantastic and if you haven't already you may as well play that one. On PC you can install the fantastic HD Project patch.
You cannot go wrong with either one.

Depends. If you want an exceptionally good and fast combat system, very satisfying progression systems, colorful world and funny characters, then this game is for you. If you want a deep or engrossing story or good dialogue, then this game is not for you.
It's a great game.

Looking forward to it!