I generally like this change. It would be however ridiculous if a lowly Barbarian could rip open such a protected pod by pure physical power. A strong Fighter could not? I hope they change it, so that nobody can open it without the tadpole assistance.
I did not free SH the first game trials, mainly because there was no easy option and I had the fear the ship would crash if I did waste time. Now, with the easy key option I discovered later gone, it's a difficult decision, as it should be (having to use the tadpole for example for the steering of the ship would be no difficult decision however because it would be no choice to do it or die).
Would I save SH without pre-knowledge? She's a potential help during the coming struggles to be expected and she's very attractive (not a reason for a hero, but I'm no one ...) but using the mean tadpole may be dangerous. Hmmm, what to do ...?