I actually had a similar problem in the original that seems to be mostly fixed in the enhanced edition. Basically I was controlling the two melee characters in my party while someone else controlled the two mages. It basically ended up me just standing around half the time. Granted my partner was kind of a dick and I don't associate with them any more, but I get the feeling you're mentioning.
That being said I feel like the sequel is doing a lot better in this area than the original. They are definitely doing better in letting me know what areas are what and what can be done with them. It's nice to be able to hover over the pools and see what's what. I would definitely not advocate for removing any, but perhaps more careful consideration in how they get activated could be achieved.
Is there a particular place you noticed this more than others? I understand what you're saying but I felt it more in the original incarnation of D:OS than I do in this sequel so I want to test out what you're saying if you have a specific place in mind.
