Aveline + Varric in the group is decent for the banter. I especially love this early one:
Quote:
Aveline: Maybe I should put you to use Varric. Have you pen some warnings for the lawless.
Varric: Who's that for? Are most criminals big readers? Seems like pacifying the nobles.
Aveline: Pictures then. It was just a suggestion.
Varric: Well how about a giant sign that just says "Don't!" You could hit people with it.
Aveline: Thank you, I get the point.
However, I also want Isabela in the group because of her jokes with Varric, but that would leave me without Anders and a healer. There's no way in hell I'm going to heal 40+ hours of questing in a single player game.
Basically, if you go DPS, you have to bring Aveline and Anders, which leaves you with just one spot. I preferred it in Mass Effect where you weren't so reliant on a tank/healer. Allowed you to mix your group based on personal preference rather than "I have to bring this person or I won't be able to complete the game."