I still cannot fathom the thought process that lead to Larian deciding this edgy origin was exactly what the game needed over a new likeable companion character. There's still a chance there's depth to it we're not seeing yet, but I'm sure as hell not holding my breath.
I'd say a good 4-5 companions are likeable, which is enough to fill out a party. I'm not sure what your requirements are, but Halsin, Karlach, and Minsc seem pretty much universally liked. Sprinkle in a Gale or Jaheira to taste, and you have a pretty decent selection of people that are nice. Plus it sounds like Wyll got a makeover and may have a choice up front to be a more likeable guy.
Personally, I am really pleased with the idea of an entirely separate Origin for a Custom PC. I get that edgelord isn't everyone's cup of tea, but the fact that there is basically an entire different PC core plot option is huge. I can't think of a game that really does this. Obviously we have to see how it is implemented, but right now it seems comparable to playing through Mass Effect as Saren instead of Shepard, which is a really cool premise.
