I'm very curious about what did you mean when you said you don't play these kind of games. I really want to recommend some games to you, but I'm not sure where to start.
Anyway if you never played it and want to see companions done right you have to try Dragon Age Origins. The companions are not necessarily better written, but they are exactly what you are talking about, responsive, outspoken, and feel more alive.
Anyways, about whether it's a design philosophy (Larian active choice) or a matter of their ability to address all variables - there is no way to know honestly. When I think about it, I hope you're right, because it increases the chances they will try to address these issues immensely. Unfortunately, since we only get act 1, I don't have a lot of hope in that regard for the full game.
