And even when you decide to start a romance with someone, it feels shallow, flat and all on your terms. "Hm, I think it's time to talk to X in camp and see if I can progress the relationship". No random interruptions while walking around for a lovetalk, and not even any doubts regarding the relationship (at least so far, I'm only in Act 2). They're all just into you because you're the main character.

Everyone is transparently designed to be an NPC put in the game for your (the player's) gratification. Everyone is horny and pansexual, so everybody can get with their favorite. Conversations happen when the player initiates them because we wouldn't want them to be inconvenienced.

Baldur's Gate 2 had drawn-out, slowly building relationships where you had to actually think about who you were talking to and pick options that are appropriate, which was not always obvious. You can't be nice to Viconia and expect her to fall for you, you gotta spar with her first and prove you are her match. Your love interest would randomly interrupt you while walking and start conversations, which made them feel alive. The relationships had ups and downs and didn't start with obvious flirting. This was 23 years ago.

And if you say I'm being unfair to Larian, it wasn't my decision to choose this branding. Of course I'm going to compare it to the previous installment.

I'm asking about if you say no to them the first time if they'll ever ask again.