Larian could probably let us level each character up independently (and choose all their abilities).
The downside I see is confusing new players. At this point, we will need additional info text next to everything. In this case, next to great weapon fighting that it's the path to maximise the great weapon master ability.
I don't think this is a bad thing. It's work, but it would go together well with a massive leveling up screen overhaul. Lets us see future possible abilities and provide tips, you know?
For fights like Nere... There will always be battles that hurt badly if your group lacks an ability. However, new players are pretty much clueless until they walk into that fight.
For balance, they could make it so that your group is almost guaranteed to win initiative on the first turn. That lets you see what is going on, but remains unforgiving. Here you really need projectile protection, mastery of ranged positioning, or a group that can get to Nere in no time.
This can be a group that is ranged, melee, or relying on magic tricks, which is great. The trap aspect of the whole encounter? Not so much. Minimizing this aspect can make the fight more enjoyable. It's mostly a good fight. It makes you think. I like combat encounters that force you to reconsider your party's weaknesses.
