I have no problem with how BG3 has you meet up with the party quickly. It makes sense from a story perspective.
almost like a reward for exploration or quests where you gain an ally, like how you can find the dog or owl ear cub, or save Volo.
That's basically my point. Companions tell a story & are therefore part of the story. If I'm getting thrown 4+ people at me in the immediate beginning, I feel less interested in their story, class or inventory. I just dismiss them or let them tag along without talking to them.
Btw. I do now notice that all of the companions are strangely single? Not even two lovers or buddies sticking together? Well, would maybe be additional voice work.