The first game in the series was always the most atmospheric and is a big part of why I enjoyed it so much. On the details of why I found it to be better game, even to its much lauded predecessor, things like being able to use magic from non-magic classes, the focus on a few core stats for a much more straightforward experience, and the greater degree of investment in the NPCs are a few. Great piece of history to give perspective on the genre for newbies, and an obvious trip down memory lane for the rest of us. A great game for all.
So, in a word, Character. The game is filled with it, and the game world is populated by them. There is so much here that would have come off hum-drum if it weren’t for the fact that the game supplies you with many truly entertaining and varied conversations and quips from the it's impressive cast. And it isn't just party members. Any one who talks feels real and purposeful. Your bar keep is a minor character, but his conversations are hilarious. But the main characters shine as bright as a canary diamond. Kelgar might be the most Dwrafy Dwarf I’ve ever seen, and yet is not stereotypical either. He carves out his own niche that is wholly dwarf but undeniably, well, Kelgar. Best of all, he is dynamic in that as you work with him, he changes over the course of the game in both heart and mind. I could go into detail about how the strategic combat is challenging but entirely fair through out the game. I could talk at length about how truly epic and powerful you feel just from interaction with the world in the mask of the betrayer expansion. I could go on for about ever on just how great this game is, but that would be a disservice to anyone who reads this, because you need to stop reading this and go play it immediately.
