Well, my first run-through will consist of 4 self-created chars (Avenger, Barb/Druid, Shadowdancer & Shapeshifter) + Hexxat and the last position will be filled with Neera or exchangeable chars (quests).
I really can't decide. If Hexxat had been neutral, I'd probably have gone Avenger with Neera, Rasaad and Hexxat in the party + 2 others to be decided. As she's not I'm tempted to go evil because it makes picking a party easy: Dorn, Korgan, Viconia, Edwin and Hexxat. They cover all roles and are pretty much the best in the game at those roles too so it gives much more freedom when choosing PC class. On the other hand it gives so much freedom choosing PC class that I can't decide and I don't really enjoy playing evil, I find the game works much better playing stupid good. I can't stand most of the neutral/good NPCs though...
Maybe I'll go neutral: Avenger (PC), Hexxat, Dorn, Rasaad, Neera and 1 slot left to switch about as needed.
Much like in BG:EE I'm bringing along all of the new companions in my first playthrough. So, my party consists of: Jannek (LN Half-Elf Fighter/Cleric), Dorn, Rasaad, Neera, Hexxat and the final slot is left empty for NPC quest companions to be rotated in and out until I rescue Imoen, then Imoen.
Elendathis (Inquisitor) Rasaad Neera Anomen or Aerie (can't decide which for my cleric) Jan/Imoen Quest NPCs then settling on one of Minsc, Mazzy, or Valygar for the trek to Spellhold.
Comments
Maybe I'll go neutral: Avenger (PC), Hexxat, Dorn, Rasaad, Neera and 1 slot left to switch about as needed.
Rasaad? Eh. Maybe someday.
Viconia
Dorn
Hexxat
Edwin
I'll rotate various NPCs for my 6th party member.
Imoen
Anomen
Keldorn (will let him leave for family and fill spot with Sarevok in TOB)
Neera
Rasaad
Elendathis (Inquisitor)
Rasaad
Neera
Anomen or Aerie (can't decide which for my cleric)
Jan/Imoen
Quest NPCs then settling on one of Minsc, Mazzy, or Valygar for the trek to Spellhold.