The 2* required character node in PVE events gives the same rewards as the easy nodes but the difficulty level is much higher. Shouldn’t it either give better rewards or have enemies at the same level as the easy nodes?
I’ve wondered the same thing. I also wondered why we don’t get rISO for 2* essential node like we do for 3* and 4*.
Maybe you should really be asking yourself why the rewards on easy nodes aren’t much lower…
No… Let’s not ask that. 
That might be the question D3 hears even if it isn’t what we ask.
The 2* node can be a strange one. It is not uncommon for it to be stuffed full of tile movers whilst the 3* or 4* nodes are nothing but goons that you can Dr. Strange to death.