LogFAQs > #969773243

Pair Up removes all challenge from the game on both Normal and Hard modes if you at all even remotely try to use it optimally while simultaneously making it much harder to predict outcomes. Lunatic and Lunatic+, however, it is basically required to not get murdered, which amplifies the prediction problems.

It's 100% definitely my most disliked mechanic in the entire series. It isn't the only reason I have Awakening so low on my personal list (the story is also another big reason) but it is a very large one.