In all fairness it's also mentioned in the "developer notes" in the OP (not the names but "immediate family"). Personally I don't get why people don't read those things before trying a new VN, there is often enlightening info under those spoiler tags.....
HP, I think the issue comes more from a desire to have a customized experience instead of lack of information.
To many users here, it is of no relevance the amount of work it would mean if "any" of the 7 were to be optional. On top of all the other "optionals". Asking for that, is easy (except they are not asking) as it is easy to say: NO.
If they acted this way on other media, like, let's say "Movies", they would go to a Cinema, with a folded newspaper to put in front of them to NOT see the actor or actress they didn't want, but would go to the internet to ask if the actor/actress could be changed (even after production and release).
I'm feeling old as dust here. And every day I feel older (no shit Sherlock).
Peace