@Niara has, at various times, suggested an interesting way of introducing backgrounds and personalities. My explanation certainly won't do it justice, but I'll attempt it. After the tadpole-insertion scene, there is a dream scene where the tadpole is trying to get to know you (to better control you I guess?). They ask various fairly vague questions about your history, what drives you, your personality, etc. Your answers help define your Tav, adding personality/history tags. Later in the game, things can differ depending on what you answered, you could get some quests related to your answers, etc.
I love this one, haven't seen this suggestion before! Props to Niara if they read this. I think this would be a great compromise.
