You find yourself wandering the open world not knowing what you're looking for only to finally find a riddle-locked chest behind a random house or a cave hidden behind a waterfall. Only then can the game progress. These are examples of how the game not only rewards exploration but makes it a necessity. The game is challenging, yes. Combat is addicting, but frustrating as its easy to have your entire party die. You quickly learn to use coatings and other enhancements on your weapons to gain the much needed edge. Sometimes the dialog feels like reading through a novel (how appropriate) but I found the story captivating and each character memorable. Highly recommend
The story and setting really captivated me. I enjoyed that there was a variety of options to achieve quests rather than fighting. That being said, the combat is the best part of the game. It is a blast! I played the game entirely on Steam Deck by the way. My only complaint is if you don't build your character just right, you will fail certain skill checks and essentially be stuck in the main story progression! Beware of this, and always save before leveling up. I actually had to do console commands to adjust some of my skills and actually be able to finish the game. Maybe more experienced players don't have this problem, but first time through its my main and really my only gripe.
This is a must own for any RPG fan. DOS2 offers a less cinematic, less theatrical, less grandiose experience compared to BG3, but is in no way lacking in depth. The game allows so much freedom for a variety play styles. You can resolve conflicts diplomatically with persuasion or pure carnage by clearing a room with a deathfog crate, and everything in between. The mechanics of using elements (air, fire, earth, etc.) in your favor is very fun and interesting. Characters are also not limited to a particular class, so your customization is essentially limitless. This is a true "desert island" game. Alternate playthroughs between this and Baldur's Gate 3 and you will be set for a long, long time.
If you are a fan of party-based isometric RPGs this game will be an instant classic in your library. The game features a large map that rewards exploration. There is an immense variety of side and companion quests that weave into the lore-rich world, without being repetitive. The pirate theme works nicely and doesn't feel over done. The new companions in the game are also memorable, especially a Priestess named Xoti who wouldn't stop hitting on me. A unique feature of the game is the ship and crew management. This was well thought out by the developers and never becomes a burden or a chore (yes, I'm looking at you Pathfinder Kingmaker). Overall this is an excellent sequel to Pillars 1 and makes we want to replay the entire series through again.
Awesome game! The turn based combat is exciting, the leveling system is clear, the world is engaging, and the story is shockingly dark. I just finished my first playthrough as a battle mage and would happily play again!
