I don't like the new PLD at all. It almost plays the same in ShO or SwO. The general rotation is also weird with the magic burst phase. And as others already pointed out the gauge feels forced. Block rate is so low that building gauge this way is pointless. You'll be capping it anyway through HS in ShO or just auto-attacks in SwO.

I'd make HS SwO exclusive and use 20 Gauge (maybe even buff it's potency to what it was). Additionally to blocking RA could boost gauge in ShO (and maybe Clemency). Have Spirits boost the gauge in either stance.

Anyway i don't see me playing PLD much if it stays the way it is atm.