This question was included in the JAR ATPL POF question bank for many years and it is probably now in the EASA question bank.
In the case of airline interviews I suspect that the questioner is attempting to test whether the candidates knowledge and understanding have expanded beyond the basic propeller theory.
If the candidate only considers the term “Critical Engine” to be applicable to multi-engine propeller aircraft, then the questioner will probably conclude that he/she has not given sufficient thought to the effects of engine failure on multi-engine aircraft.
But if the candidate is aware that the generally accepted definition of the term Critical Engine is something along the lines of “The engine who’s failure would most adversely affect the performance and/or handling of the aircraft” then he/she should be able to discuss effects such as crosswinds and system layouts. A candidate who is able to do this is more likely to convince the questioner that he/she is the right one for the job.