During the early stage of EA cycle I posted a two-star review here. Then the game got progressively better during the later stages of the cycle. The finished product is a fine game. Surely not the classic to end all classics, as one might imply from the over-hyped reviews, though. Let's be honest: a new BG2 it isn't. When the dust settles, I think that much will be seen clearly. I believe a more fitting description would be a new Dragon Age: Origins of sorts, different universe notwithstanding. The general atmosphere (minus the universe), the presentation, the better parts of the game script strongly remind me of DAO, which by itself is quite a complimentary remark. The mechanics, the combat (though it's a wee bit too easy even on Tactical for an oldschooler like me: for one, I think beating Commander Zhalk in the prologue should not be so trivial), the music, and the visuals/the VO are the main selling points for me. Companions are well-designed, but evil alignment is (again!) underrepresented: two origin NPCs and one Act 2 companion as opposed to a horde of do-gooders. This disbalance is somewhat redeemed by an introduction of The Dark Urge origin, which is indeed very interesting. The plot is passable, decent at times, as long as one is fine with the writing being not exactly Bioware-tier. Mind you, it's surely not horrible, and quite immersive. Just a bit generic and, well, mostly devoid of literary merit. Even so, I suggest focusing on the stronger aspects of this games, of which there is a lot. The bugs: have no fear, in this respect it's a worthy successor of both BG2 and DAO! :) Invisible NPCs and faulty event triggers FTW. This was anticipated, though - hell, I would have felt cheated if it wasn't buggy at times! - and nothing was game-breaking. Larian are quick to patch the bugs, too. Overall, it's a good RPG totally worth experiencing. There is a lot to enjoy in BG3, just don't expect some kind of timeless classic, and you are going to love it.
