It adds an extra bit of challenge to what would be a typical floor, now you not only have to account for enemy actions but for your allies as well.
I do agree they need some sort of buff.
Mecha-knights should frequently deal shock to enemies
Recon Knights should deathmark targets on entry but also lower defenses of anything they hit with their autogun
Turrets should Freeze enemies
Vaelyn should teleport to the player more often (except in the last battle where players could just die and let her carry)
Gunner NPCs should check to see if they even can hit something before shooting
Sword NPCs should try to stay on the player's screen but avoid monsters in the player's vicinity and line of sight
http://forums.spiralknights.com/en/node/45396#comment-295673