I have to disagree, mostly because this isn't real life, it's a game. Plus, your NPCs can turn from a nice tan to looking like a zombie from going to the DS in the time period the game allows, but they can't turn even a bit evil?
Plus, Malak turned Bastila pretty quick.
and your example, if what we are told is correct is correct, fails, as the slip to the DS isn't subtle. It's non-existant. The PNPCs don't change personality or preferences (they still want the muggers to just be chased off after they master the DS). Maybe thats been reported wrong (I hope), I havn't played the game, but thats how it was describe by numerous people. It just basically deals with thier force powers ,a few scenes where their alignment comes into play as checks, and what NPC quest you can get at.
Please, if I'm wrong, I'd REALLY love to know....cuz what is there seems lackluster after the build up of the system.
THat being said, I agree with Vol that it will be a fun game, and I'll buy it the day it comes out for the PC....but the influence system was described as this deep grand thing and it doesn't seem thats the case.