Epic is the better of the two solo or group but as other pointed out fungi holds value after purchased. Epic is locked nodrop forever.

Fungi first while working on epic. You can always sell fungi to finish epic or just finish epic yourself and keep fungi.

Yeah I mean I did epic on my monk at 46 with my guild. I've also been randomly asked while just running around for help with it. If you ask around people will help.

go fungi, and make your own epic dont buy it. its fun and a big part of this game.