I strongly prefer games with fixed character(s). The biggest problem with open character creation is that it necessitates a native full of generic dialogue and events to accommodate every possibility the player might choose. Fixed characters live in a world where they belong, and that world regards them as developed and known individuals, rather than rudimentary flavor dialogue that may account for species, gender, faction, or class.

Roleplaying Geralt, Aloy, Arthur Morgan, and Cal Kestis means pathos, story, and character development. Vault dweller and the Tarnished One are coat-racks that you hang armor sets on.