I've seen one or two posts about this topic, but I thought I'd start a new thread on Larian's current plan of locking your party after Act 1. Specifically, I wanted to focus on why this works for DOS2 (at least mechanically), but would not work for BG3.
One thing that made DOS2 unique is that it allowed any character to be whatever they wanted. Want to start as a tank, but then realize it's not how you like to play? As long as you're past Chapter 2, you can change that with no repercussions. this means you can completely change your playstyle almost on the fly and allowed you to go into encounters with the most optimal build you could do. However, the D&D mechanics are much more rigid and you are stuck with the abilities of whatever class(es) you chose. While respeccing is confirmed for the final game, I don't think it would be a great idea to be able to change classes during respeccing, especially for origin characters. I think this would add way too much complexity and would also more or less negate origin characters' backstories (imagine instead of getting thin, suave Astarion you got a buff elven fighter with the charisma of a rock).
How then do you get over the limitations of the D&D class system? By having a diverse party ready and waiting and capable of being swapped in. This still allows you to be ready for any encounters that come your way and also gives those who are invested in the characters the chance to experience all or most of them within one playthrough. It also gives you some buffer for when characters leave for approval reasons. While I'm sure that's what the mercenary system is for, I'm sure a lot agree with me that having this mute back-up character is a poor substitute for any potential banter within the party.
Obviously, this is all my own opinion, but I'm curious what others think as well. Let me know!
