but when everyone has some crazy backstory, they all start to blend together as not that exciting.
Definitely agree with this point. Don't want to get too far off topic, but I think games like Pillars of Eternity did a good job of this. I think it is awesome if some of the origins/companions have big, crazy, over the top stories. But I wish there were a few more "I'm just an adventurer who wants to tag along to help/have fun" types. They want to explore, they find you interesting and they themselves have interesting personalities - but the fate of the world is not resting on their shoulders. Same thing with having a couple of 'hired guns' who are only in it for the money, treasure, fame, etc.
I think the big, grand, crazy stories are awesome. I'm excited to see what happens with most of the origins/companions - Gale included.
Just wish there were more 'basic' or 'grounded' stories included with them as well.