I too hold the not-so-popular view that D/S could be made optional.
However, if it's left the way it is, the last thing I want to see is the horror of Patch 6 and scared faces
Also, the kissing mod that was posted in various Astarion threads was a great solution for me. That way, I can click on other companions' kisses without clicking on the ones that introduce the D/S dynamic (AA's own kisses), and click on them when I'm in the mood.
I don't think it's that unpopular of an opinion. The mod you mention will be perfect for those that seek non D/S kisses. Mods are honestly the perfect solution to satisfy everyone in this. We just have to accept that Larian wanted to lean into something resembeling D/S in AA kisses, the corrected expressions only confirmes it for me. It sounds like the new animations are perfect for this dynamic. And some have even said you can roleplay as trapped with them as well.
I'm really looking forward to seeing them on my Tav. I knew Larian could pull it off. I have seen the other companions kisses and how well those are handled, someone at Larian knows how to make perfect kisses.
I will probably have that mod installed as well, it's very good. I recommend for everyone looking for more standard romantic kisses.
These new "consensual" expressions can in fact be very triggering, as they are for me, in that they signal to the player that something they see as abusive is actually playful and fun.
There is another mod where you can have Astarion kiss you with other companions kiss animations. You should check it out on Nexusmods!
