I think the latter half is much more likely.

Remember Oblivion's companions? Their options were "follow me" or "go away" or something to that extent. This is a huge improvement, but still needs modder's love before they will be truly enjoyable.

Unless you a jack of all trades EZ mode gamer, really depends as certain companions have better synergy with your class type.

On my 2 hand Warrior I typically bring along Aela or whatever her name is from the Companion guild. She's a natural archer so works very well.

On my Archer Thief I bring along Lydia as she tanks and aggros stuff like a mofo as I sit back and plunk the mobs off her with arrows

On my Mage I don't bring anyone, too much friendly fire and I have to be extremely careful with AOE spells for fear of killing my tag alongs, haha.

I think the question that need to be asked is if it's possible to create a decent companion A.I. Of all the game that has a.i. companion, I haven't seen one that do a decent job. There's always a problem and those problem mostly hinder the player, forcing him/her to recognize the flaws and take action where the flaws doesn't become a problem (like if you need a tank then you sneak shoot knowing that your companion will rushes in, while the sneaky type will use companion purely for mule and tell the companion to stay put away from the action)... it's a hassle for sure but like I said I have yet to see an actually decent companion a.i. in any game

i got a laugh when 2 giants were pratically playing golf with lydia one time while i was perched up high on the mountain....

I could almost hear the giants saying," Four!" before whacking her into the air. shes one tough girl though cause a min later she would be back for more. if only she could learn to climb.

poor girl. ill have to buy her a sweet roll when we get back.