At this point, its a matter of taste on how different it is to ROTJ and if there are any creative/meaningful ways to make the rey, ben, palpatine interaction more “original/novel” but thats a different discussion.
Actually, this is exactly the discussion I’m wanting to have!
I feel like you could make Rey and Kylo’s duel on the Death Star relevant to the battle of Exegol if you can establish one. For example, if Kylo has ordered for the fleet to wait for his return, then Rey keeping him distracted can connect the two plots. Or, if the Wayfinder’s function could be changed, maybe the Wayfinder can be used to control the entire fleet (like a remote control), then Rey getting would play a role that could have an effect on the battle, even though she is light years away.
Again, not saying I hate the movie as it is. Just spitballing.