I wouldn't call a fighting style requiring to acquire a new piece of equipment, possibly requires picking up a feat and investing a noteworthy portion of your APs a "fall back option". Can it be? Of course, but to say it is 100% of the time and to say it is not a fighting style isn't true.
Furthermore, even if you consider it a "fall back option", it does not mean it should not become a fighting style worth talking about.
Why? For the same reason you desire balance (unless you have selfish motives like me).
True, and that is why it needs more love even after the nerf.