I agree. This could be a pretty good idea. I'm going to put more thought into this and describe more systems in the game which could be implemented to provide a riveting experience for the gamer:
- Load online functions onto the Gamepad so the player can browse the internet, chat, or post on Twitter during the long cutscenes
- Implement motion controls for the Driving Mode in battles to make the summons feel more dynamic and intense
- Use the touch screen on the Gamepad to allow the player to plot routes on the maps for auto move
- As you said, allow the player to shift paradigms using the touch screen - but here's the icing on the cake - allow them to do that WHILE also browsing the internet, chating, or posting on Twitter on the same screen! Just have some overlay at the corner!
I'm sure the creative users here on NeoGAF can come up with many more great ideas, these are just a few suggestions to get the ball rolling!