I first played this game several years ago. I thought it was a great game, yet I stopped playing it after I entered the massive world (over the bridge). Basically, I didn't have a clue what to do.. Too much freedom for me to handle? Possibly..
A couple of years later, I decided to give it another try. I ran around in that huge open world, slowly understanding the map, the locations, etc. After I started to understand this, the game wouldn't let me go anymore.
Once you cross that first bridge, prepare for an amazingly detailed world filled with interesting characters, innovative quests and much, much more.
Try it! You will not regret it. And please take my advice: Don't give up at the start, you will be rewarded greatly afterwards!