I read the OP and some of the posts.. well, all on this page, and all on first page. Forgive me for not reading the other 11 pages.

No snark intended, but maybe someone could explain to me how a not-mechanics-driven fight would work.

I get that clearing EX-primals, for example is all about memorizing the dance. That would be mechanics-driven. So that in theory, a player w/ worse gear could still clear it if she knows which way to go.

So, Garuda EX rotation is predictable and easy to memorize - after Aerial Blast, it's sisters, razor plumes, and repeat.

Sky in FFXI. Suzaku didn't have a set rotation, but it was largely irrelevant since your tank would just be standing there doing his thing while the healer does his and the DDs do his. At some point in time, it was guaranteed Suzaku would chainspell, and then you shadowbind or chainspell stun him back and continue doing your thing. Isn't that mechanics-driven?

Thing X happen so we all do thing Y - That's mechanics, no?