I can't select the companions at start (not that I necessarily want to).
Maybe I should consider playing a Drow, if the gameplay experience is that different. I bet playing as a Gith is something special too, given, that they seem to be generally mistrusted.
I can't play as any of the companions either, but as for playing as a Drow. Play what you want to play I find them unique because of npc's reactions, plus there are some dark areas where there superior darkvision comes in handy. My next character will either be a Tiefling, Half Elf/Drow, or a Lloth Sworn Drow. I wonder since Drow society is a matriarchy if female Drow will have different reactions?