What I suggested is probably not very realistic - especially 12 origins, but you're right with the others filling up the roles. I'm not expecting them to include a ridiculous amount of companions with huge stories, but I think including some BG2-like companions (as many as resources allow, at least 4 to have 12 companions with more depth) and another bunch of BG1-level companions to fill to 2/class would be doable - and a huge improvement on the companion front. BG1 companions were cardboard, but cardboard with enough characterization to make them feel alive and full of personality (and even they had party banter, likes and dislikes). That would bridge the gap between origins and mercenaries. 8 is just not enough to pick from. Especially if you want to pick ones you like and have a certain party comp at the same time.
There are already characters I've heard would be good for this: we have a bunch of camp followers, some are X class, like
Perhaps they are waiting until the classes get implemented?
