So let's get this out of the way real quick with a simple 4th grade level comparison between 2 characters in WOTR:
Seelah:
The first thing that you learn about her is that she likes to help the needy without being asked. (she tries to help Anevia when she's stuck under a rock)
The second thing you learn about her is at the end of the Maze, when you learn that she always struggles to do what's right.
And the third thing you find out about her is that... she likes to drink. (you find this out anywhere from 1h to 3h into the game)
These are 3 traits. Meaning you NEED 3 traits to have a character. (obviously the more you have, the more complex the character is, of course.)
Compare this to Regill, where these things are there in the first 60s:
1. he has incredible resourcefulness
2. he has critical thinking
3. a grasp of basic strategy, and reaction to basic enemy strategy
4. charisma and, at least, basic leadership skills
5. concise and precise speech in accordance to his situation
and after the battle (which can range from another 60s to 10 minutes:
6. gratefulness, but not putting you beyond suspicion of corruption/being on the enemy side, given his
7. seemingly extensive knowledge of the enemy he's facing
Right?
And now let's put ourselves in the mind of Amber Scott, because it's not fucking hard. She can't clear 4th grade education, so...
Seelah is a character because:
1. She likes to help people.
2. She's female.
3. She's black.
4. She's a paladin.
Problem is: a character cannot be defined by their sex, colour of skin or job; because THOSE ARE NOT TRAITS OF CHARACTER. A fucking 10 year-old knows this.
So, what do we have then?
[insert quotes of Codexers here saying Seelah is boring]
The real problem is that this got past the Owlcat writing team. And Mishu-mishu. These people apparently are WRITERS. That went to a school of WRITERS. And there, they were taught how to WRITE.
Why... my brain is smooth as an ice rink and I seem to know better.