I'll give a feedback when i reach the endgame, because i think it might get things easier (despite the cost of the upgrades)
Now that's how you make the game easier in my opinion, but that way, you can really create killing machines or. I'm playing with the AWC choosable perks (true reatroactive AWC included). Also, i don't play with the assassin class (see More Classes Mod), i'm not a huge fan. That's a personnal choice, i really don't like the specialist. I'm playing without the specialist class (see Disable Any Class Mod) i replaced it with the infiltrator and the Field Medic. I did add some mods that provides more option to the soldiers, and overall, more diversity. Early game is hard (on Legend difficulty), but manageable. That's the case, so far, BUT with all those mods, I think late mid-game/late game will become easier. I am aiming here for a more challenging experience of the game. Here is the mods i'm currently using in XCOM 2.