The only thing I don't like is you don't really know how good each class is and you can't respec
They should give you the option to respec one for free.
Machinist is probably the worst class in the game, but its still workable when paired with something flexible but slow. Basically, you want to pair fast class with slow class as much as possible and then maybe make sure every character has access to both ranged and mele ability to some degree. Also, try and make sure everyone ends up with some form of group healing on their board, as several fights depend on it. Second class unlocks after Raithwall's tomb is complete and you have all six characters.
Fast Classes (have 2+ Swiftness ranks)- Hunter, Machinist, Archer, Bushi, Time Mage, Monk
Aside from starting someone as a machinist, you really can't fuck things up that bad and even that choice is not completely wrong. The Hunter class (forget what this version calls it) is the best one to repeat and both the Archer and Machinist are the most skipable ones (though Archer is strong early). Hunter + White Mage and Bushi + Knight are probably the two best combos out there, if you are looking to break the game. Ranged magic really only matters for a few specific esper and hunt fights, while mele/ranged weapons are nearly always the best way to win. Support and healing is king, though.
Here is what I am rolling with (though its not optimal, I wanted all classes represented in the game) and I am plowing through the game pretty easily.:
Vann- Red Mage/Machinist- I hate the character, so he got the leftovers, but this combo works surprisingly well as a supplemental healer who can still mele if needed.
Balthier- Spear Guy/Time Mage- Spears and buffs when he needs to be close, Crossbows and healing when its an AE fest, and heavy armor on a mage. Worked out better than I expected.
Basch- Bushi/Knight- Mele DPS tank with supplemental healing. (Bash Combos with Katanas a lot and the damage is based on both magic and power)
Ashe- Hunter/White Mage- Super Tank (Gladius and shield give ridiculous evasion) and healing, probably the most invincible character.
Fran- Archer/Breaker (Axe Guy)- Bows and bombs from a distance, or Axe and Shield in close (Fran gets big combos from Axes and Hammers) with healing and potion jockey status.
Penelo- Monk/Black Mage- Amazing magic damage... when you fight something that cares about that. This character sucks right now, but will get better once I get access to the top white mage spells.
Whatever you pick (unless its an entire party of machinist archers) you can't really screw yourself, but just make sure you work at least one Hunter, Bushi, Knight, and White Mage into the lineup to make use of the best weapons in the game.
PS- This game was the last good FF. Even its half assed ending made for a better story than anything in 13 or 15. Knowing the story from the GB Advance Tactics games (set in the same world and share some of the characters and countries) helps to suck you in, though.
