For myself, Mistlands felt like a chore until I got to a turning point - magic.
Not going to build anything but portal outpost there and farms (Kill Gjall then plant). had to resort to an old tactic "trap them in a pit" for seekers (deep enough pit that they can't attack the roof I put over them which in turn keep em from flying out). Just wish the wisplight had an upgrade "Wisp Swarm".

agreed, the core hunt is a pain. and a renewable source of Royal jelly would be great(currently wondering if max skill would enable deadraiser to work without the stuff that needs royal jelly.