So, from the perspective of multi-branched story writing, I think Alistair works so insanely well (and has such a huge fan base) because his end points have something for everyone who romances him.

I agree with this for myself, but I recently came across an interesting essay arguing almost the exact opposite: that the Alistair romance perfectly encapsulates the theme of sacrifice in that you can get an ending that is happy for Alistair and the player or one that is happy for Ferelden, but not both.

Oh, Alistair

Of course, in part this is my biases talking, because I don't necessarily believe that becoming Alistair's mistress rather than his wife has to necessarily be an unsatisfying ending for their romance. But I realize that puts me in something of a minority!

I look forward to the entry with your thoughts on this matter. :)