Branding is, to me, just like the Tadpole. Why would you look at that and think "This will get me power with no significant consequences". You even see it in action giving you the ability to command others.
Admittedly, improved loot on either side doesn't really make a big selling point to me. You get plenty roaming the maps and turning over rocks, and letting Gale turn into a mana bomb rather than feeding him. I'm more interested in more choices and story improvements.
The companions with negative Grove reactions have been toned down. Provided my memory isn't faulty, Shadowheart used to negative on anything that wasn't "go go go get this tadpole outta my head". She's a lot easier to get positive reactions with. Lae'zel too was a lot more "GET TO THE CRECHE". Astarion and Gale have remained relatively consistent, Gale might be a little less abrasive. I should do a playthrough and actually include Wyll...maybe, one day...
