That's the first time I've heard 2 as being described as the weakest of the trilogy...
I wouldn't say that as such, but it's not my favourite. I like the idea that everyone thinks he's dead; the Alliance and council won't help him with the reapers so Shepard's only chance is working with the extremists. It all goes to **** with the human reaper larvae - that's just stupid.
They probably just can't get a word in over SAM talking about areas to be mined or strike teams being ready for deployment...Does anyone else have the banter bug? You may have it and not know!
Your squad mates on foot - are supposed to talk. A LOT. Quips and conversations all over the place.
I've not had a single iteration of it, two full planets of complete silence. They talk in the nomad, but not on foot.