So... This is the "improved encounter design"?

[Raikai]

the tier is cool, but there is nothing really innovative in it's design, except for alarm pheromones (m2s)

Ironically, so far from what I experienced of half of the tier, Alarm Pheromones is the most exciting mechanic they added exactly because it allows some sort of free form. I know people go for this "Mario Kart" strat for that part (th is that name...), but as a ranged unit I feel much more safe by doing the mech on my own instead of following the group.