After using mine at work for a few days I think it is more a relative of a Nakiri than a Santoku, in use at least.
When I prepare vegetables I use a rocking motion, although only a slight one it is enough to see the tip catching the surface of the cutting board, something I hadn't expected.
I wouldn't say it is a gimmick design at all, which is a relief as there are some out there, I think this design brings some versatility to a Nakiri type knife.
The tip design makes it really useful, more than on any other knife I have used, it allows the knife to do precision work and at a length of 165 up to 180 the knife is short enough that you retain control to execute it accurately.
I think anyone who enjoys using a Nakiri or a Santoku might find this tip design to be a great innovation while retaining the practical features of those knives.