I liked just what you disliked about XII... But I disliked a lot of things the game fans like, so I'm definitely out of "the norm".

The people above to have a point though: You are over thinking it.

See this list of good gambits I compiled from my experience and some forums, plus the simplest one works like a charm too:

Simplest Gambit for any char:
1) Ally HP>=50% (or any close %) / Cura (or Potion or High Potion)
2) Foe, targeting ally / Attack
3) Ally HP >= 30% / Phoenix Down (later switch to HP <10% when you get the 10% gambit)

Here's the list o favorite Gambits
http://forums.eyesonff.com/showthread.php?t=98220