It's quite different to the first and I'm just wondering how and if timing plays a role. For example I can take 1 dude on fair easy but when it comes to more there is no clear way to time shots etc. Will I get new moves later on instead of the slashing and power swing for his attacks or is it going to stick this way.

Thanks

Yes new moves/combos come as you improve. Some weapons will have % to do a move as well.

For example a club has a stun chance and that will come with a special animation. Same with certain kill blows.

Attacking the enemy from the back seems to do wonders. Most of them (at start, anyway) also hit pretty slowly, so you can use that to run past them and trigger their attack, then use roll move (space default I believe?) and hit them when their back is turned towards you.

I have to admit, I'm loving this new combat, it makes the game a lot more tactical and well, realistic :>.