Yeah, I think the game could’ve done a better job explaining the battle system. I’ve heard it becomes almost like a rhythm game if you build your team correctly. When I played it I was more focused on story than gameplay, but by the end I found that the battles were the most enjoyable part. I’m not very good at them, though. I do want to replay the game but with a larger focus on gameplay. I’m half-tempted to start up a ng+ file right now.
Edit: I forgot to mention, chain attacks can actually get pretty powerful, especially in late game. I never really used them at the start, but once I got used to the orb system they saved me so many times.