With Dragon Age: Origins and Inquisition - It's all first-hand. You're playing the story.
I think DA2 was different, because Hawk's story was being told by Varric, and that first part sort of gets you used to combat, and gives the game an early feel for the personality you're going for. (With the idle dialogue for Hawk changing on your favored options).
That being said, It'd be hard for them to do that beginning part like DA2, when you plan on picking a Dwarf, Elf, Human, or Qunari. Seeing as how they vary in size, build, horns and beard!
Could you imagine?
"So the Inquisitor was Average height and build?"
"Now that you mention it... He was 4 ft/7ft, and stocky/giant."