Events like this are really just a dps check. Most events even on t4 once your build gets going you can kill stuff fast enough to keep them safe. The only time it’s impossible to keep npcs safe imo is when you’re in a dungeon with lots of spiders, because the poison just destroys them while the enemies are already dead regardless of how fast you are.

I agree, seems a waste to make preseason alts. My barb is basically done, probably going to make a rogue for season 1.

I’ve still been getting uniques at a similar rate so I think you’re just having bad luck. That being said I’ve only been doing higher tier nightmare dungeons. From what I remember they buffed helltides drop rates from some enemies I think