Yes, apparently we don't like Astarion and suffer in act 1 and 2, lol. For the record, I'm fond of him in all the acts, I just dislike how the spawn path post-Cazador turned out (and said multiple times I wished it was better and made suggestions how to improve it) and how they're now messing with the ascension route.
It's funny they would say that when nothing could be further from the truth. Personally I love his story and character in Act 1 and 2, his comments always make me laugh so having him in the party is a given for a fun playthrough. I have only had time to do almost 2 playthroughs. Restaring with a DUrge specifically to do Astarion romance again from scratch. I would not do that if I did not enjoy the journey with him.
