The thing to remember is that the biggest problem with the new system isn't just that it's easy to exploit, but that exploiting it is very boring.
On lower difficulties, it's easy to win battles by focusing on pumping out a lot of damage. That's fine as long as you don't get hit by too many CCs.
But when you really want to push the tactical limits of the system, then you need to hold back on damage and focus on CC at the expense of all else. That means, for example, not casting your awesome fireball spell because you're worried the water will evaporate and you won't be able to stun the enemy again.
It really is an easy exploit. Electrified water does damage if you try to walk through it. If you cast rain to make a massive pubddle, electrify the pool of water, and then retreat, then the enemies will just walk through the puddle until their magic armour is depleted and they're stunned. Then you just have to keep the water electrified while you slowly finish them off one at a time. It's easy, but boring.
I haven't fully played through the Early Access yet, but I've already used this tactic to defeat enemies that should have been WAY out of my league.
