I think the intention was giving you choices on how you express yourself, and not how different the results are. I also noticed that when I was playing and I found it a bit disheartening. There were only several times in which our choices were really different, because they expressed "agreement" or "not agreement". All the rest are different lanes ending at the same plaza. Some are more beautiful, others are sharp and rare.
Ah, and forgive me. I forgot to answer your question:
I prefer a more natural conversation, which would be basically Illusion of Choice. Linear talking lacks character. Of course, having important decisions considered. I would not enjoy a game with only bland talking either.
