A lot depends on the terrain you are riding on. Some trails are so smooth you can ride a road bike on them. Other trails have ruts, rocks, and soft dirt or sand.
To me, rear suspension make a big difference on square-edged type stuff, both climbing and descending.
In March I bought a 6 inch travel "plus" bike, (2.8 inch wide tires). That thing is really fun to ride and I find myself trying things I wouldn't try on other bikes I've had.
I also feel more confident in the traction of the wide tires. I'm 64 and I thought it would help with my lack of skill and it has.
If you do mostly smoother trails and fire roads you can get a bike with less travel and save some weight.