If you play *as* Gale, you're basically a Human Wizard Tav. You get a really fun cat in camp, but otherwise would never know that you're Gale of Waterdeep until the very, very end.
Lorroakan also recognises him - unless you meant that.
I partly disagree. I really like his Origin, not just because of Tara. I think the thing with the ring at the beginning was a pretty genius move to efficiently drive home that his situation is painful. (I sacrificed the sword from the Nautiloid to keep the thing. I fought so hard for that blade ...) I love how the war of his conscience is reflected by opposing the narration's reminders of what Mystra would want with Astarion tempting you to do the opposite. You have these very nice choice moments in the Shadowcurse during which you can also ponder whether you grasp for power or follow your goddess's command - which correspond with the explanation about Shadow Magic he gives you as a companion. I also really like that you get to choose why not to explode, get a much more productive audience with Mystra - and if you wish to go down that route - a possible grander reason for detonating the crown in the end. I am very happy with the Origin, it has nice roleplaying incentives. Also I think that Gale did get some really good Tav lines, complete with jokes and all. They felt very him. It's just a pitty that not more of his party banter was left in, especially in Act 3 a lot is missing.
What I would love, is an option for him to reclaim his name in the "good" version, as that seems rather essential for him.
