The trick to playing a rogue in small parties is to maximise the AC (high DEX, Feats/class features, magic) and take the Arcane Trickster as a specialisation. That way you can be a second-rate fighter or mage when required.
I think it depends on the party composition. If my MC is a Rogue and my other party members are Fighter, Wizard, and a Cleric spec'd as more of a healer/caster than an off-tank, then I don't need a second-rate mage. I need another good melee fighter.
An Arcane Trickster Rogue could be better if you've got a mage and two fighters to deal out the melee whoop-ass. I just don't find that as appealing, even if it's effective.
