Its more entertaining with multiplayers.... I think this is probably what they were trying to go for.
Path of Radiance was not challenging..... well.... maybe a little, but with games like Fire Emblem 2-5 under my belt... I'm at a severely biased point.
Tales of Symphonia was terrible IMO compared to others of the tales series.... except... *shudder* Legendia. Stick with Baiten Kaitos and Fire Emblem. Get FF:CC if you like a challenge and have at least one other that shares your dedication, (two if you want to get all the higher level spells and challenges).