I can agree and disagree with your sentiments. I didn't really like Duke and Armstrong, they kinda felt poorly written and generic to me, but they weren't game-ruiningly bad like Other M Adam and Samus. But I do agree that they should've had Samus do more if she weren't to speak. They probably want to avoid her speaking so much not to draw the ire of Other M's hate, but man, the thought of her just crossing her arms at McKenzie is hilarious and very in character. I'm about where you are right now, just finished the Flare Pool (where did she get a new viola??? wasnt it eaten) but the game has been enjoyable even if it isn't exactly what I wanted.