That they did, I just wish they'd included some of the characters. The only time they do, is at the end of Retribution...and of all the Blood Raven they could pick it had to be Diomedes(and a nearly dead Gabriel Angelos).
It was something I loved about Starcraft 2. All the cutscenes were really benefiting the dialogues. For example, Thaddeus' and Avitus' arguments would be more interesting if you actually see them going at each other throats(mimic, gestic,ect.), rather than the little portrait at the left corner of the screen, playing the same animation over and over again.
Oh yes it is great in Starcraft. All DoW 2 was made by the easiest possible way. Linear missions or few missions on the same maps (only difference is that we start not from the down of a map but from the middle or the top) make game very boring after a few hours. DoW 1 was much more better than 2. They tried to make something new corresponding to the previous part, but in my opinion they failed. W40K Space Marine brings some fresh air to this title.
I wouldn't say they failed, but DoW 2 really could have used more variety. I still love the game...especially blowing everything up with Cyrus(including giant Carnifexes). Scouts really improved in my opinion in compare to DoW 1(they can actually kill stuff now). I still miss building a base and defences for the points you captured.
You're right. Blasting all to pieces makes a lot of fun. Some things are better and some are worse. All in all I expected something what needs more inteligence and strategic thinking than accurate aiming your mouse. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw that they connected elements of RPG and DoW. I'm sure if the did something like WarCraft3 it would be a glorious victory
For example, Thaddeus' and Avitus' arguments would be more interesting if you actually see them going at each other throats(mimic, gestic,ect.), rather than the little portrait at the left corner of the screen, playing the same animation over and over again.