I’d add to this: think of the gym lead certification as just the start. As others have said, lead head is a thing and it’s perishable unfortunately. Some people have no issues, some (like myself) struggle with it and have to keep up with it or it goes away fast.
But in general, yeah, expect to do worse on lead. Most people are more cautious, hence over gripping, but also having to stop and clip. Takes that much more effort, and learning rest positions becomes all that much more important. It really does just take a lot of time.
Not sure if this one qualifies anymore, but Suikoden 2 didn’t get much love on initial release. It’s since gotten better reviews, and is finally getting a remaster. But it’s a great PS1-era RPG - good story, goofy with serious moments, varied combat options, and you get a castle that can be upgraded by recruiting all 106 (I think) characters.
Star Ocean 2 got a bit more attention at release, but I still feel like I’m the only person that played it. Another PS1-era RPG, it has an early active combat system more akin to modern RPGs. Star Ocean has kinda gone off the rails since, but 2 still holds up.
Alundra, think PS1 Zelda, except much harder.
The Last Story was a Wii RPG - hard to find, but it was surprisingly good.
Drawing blanks for PS2/3 stuff, I feel like everything on there that was good, is known as good. Even Demons Souls found a new life. I guess, if you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and play Final Fantasy X?