When I first started out, I thought I didn't need the gambit system, so I generally ignored it, but now I use it all the time. I enjoy the game more because setting up gambits is like creating a strategy and, for me, it's nice to see how that strategy unfolds and develops in battle (especially boss battles). It just makes the game less tedious, I guess.

And, another thing about gambits: how exactly is this so "complicated"? I remember hearing complaints that the gambit system was so hard to use, but it didn't seem difficult to use (to me, at least). Though, I do wish it had a few more gambits that were a bit more specific earlier in the game (I'm still missing half of my gambits which I truly do need for these optional Esper battles).