I find it really difficult not to play the sarcastic mage Hawke, and that relationship with Carver is fricking hilarious. Unlike the other companions, where you quickly get to a high friendship/rivalry, my Hawke is constantly pissing off Carver, but then making overtures. It's a great brotherly bond, they both manage to bug the crap out of each other, but they also have each other's back.
I played DA2 first, I've only started into DA:O, and Hawke is much preferable to the mute Warden. He's frequently hilarious, and it's easier to get into his head.