As I near the end of my third DA Origins run, I have spared Loghain for the first time.
Now, let's get something straight. I've always sympathized with Loghain. He did bad things but he clearly didn't enjoy doing bad things. He's no Howe. He took steps that were regrettable but which he thought were necessary. He accepts his death with good grace and it's heartbreaking in the epilogue where Queen Anora builds him a statue and she's the only one who ever visits it. The man was once the greatest hero in the land but he destroyed his own legacy.
That all being said...sparing Loghain? Hardest decision I've ever made in a video game. I'd sell a million more Connors to demons before I ever let him live again. Letting him live has made me hate the man so much and it's frankly bizarre. As I said, my lat two runs, I was very appreciative of his tragedy. But letting him live, it's almost like that tragedy was all sucked away and all I can see is the evil he's done.
I think it's because of what Alistair says. Everything Alistair said is true. This is the man who has done so many terrible things and you're letting him live. And in return ,Alistair leaves. I know some people don't like Al but, whatever your feelings about him, Alistair has been there since the start. He was there helping you fight off assassins that the bastard you just saved sent after you both. Sparing Loghain is almost as great a betrayal as when Loghain left Cailan to die.
It also doesn't help that I liked Cailan a lot. He wasn't half as stupid as everyone says he was. What's more, he was a good and caring man. If you are a City Elf or a Human Noble, he is visibly shocked and horrified when he hears of your plight and vows to do something about it when he gets back. Should be noted, Howe's hostile takeover of Highever was enabled by Loghain. Without knowing Cailan wasn't coming back alive, Howe's murder and treachery never could have succeeded. It wouldn't go unpunished, at any rate. Getting back to Cailan, I just did Return to Ostagar for the first time. Loghain, that asshole, says just throw Cailan's body to the wolves.
So yes... I just... I dunno. I tend to be very passionate about my characters and their companions. This is no exception. It's just so weird, going from being so understanding of Loghain to ranting and raving about how he doomed everyone and deserves death. (I didn't do that here but I did do it elsewhere where Loghain has a few defenders)