I am actually using this complex gambit system right now to level the smurf up in the StillShrine. There is a rare enemy that summons gausts...forever. I am at level 70 and rising. I am at work right now and the system is on at home doing all the work for me right now

GO GAMBITS!
Too Bad gausts only give about 300 exp per kill making the process very long.
As to the other thing. My point is that gambits only take as much control away as you let it have. You could do the whole game without ever using a gambit if you wanted to.