I don't like it either. Instead of getting cool and flashy abilities, characters get tiny numerical bonuses as they level up, even as their capstone, and have to pretend that this is a big deal. Primary casters are the exception, of course.

Aside from that, I find the resolution mechanics entirely too random. Characters are never allowed to become actually good at anything; an trained/skilled character (except a rogue) is not noticeably better at anything than an untrained rookie.

The impression I get is that WOTC is so utterly afraid of adding unbalanced options, that the majority of character options are bland and boring.