The Dragon Age devs know that you had no problem leaving Stroud in the Fade - so they made sure Veilguard hurt
Briefly

The Veilguard's penultimate quest demands players choose a companion to lead a team that will lead to their death, affecting relationships profoundly.
The consequence of character death in The Veilguard amplifies emotional stakes, making choices feel more significant than previous entries, like Dragon Age: Inquisition.
Unlike Inquisition, where decisions felt less impactful, The Veilguard's choice of sacrificing a beloved companion leads to heartbreak and a greater emotional payoff.
Creative director John Epler acknowledges the unequal emotional weight of characters like Hawke versus Stroud, highlighting the deeper connections formed in The Veilguard.
Read at Polygon
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