This is a very good game that introduces some new elements, but there are a few drawbacks. Most of the game so far has been open-world, with a certain number of reputation points needed to advance in the game (twice), so it's pretty much all petty quests after you get back to Avernum. (so far) The fast-travel system still irks me but most people should be fine with it. I haven't got crown clearance yet (which you need to meet the king, which probably introduces a new phase in the game) but I've played this game for 15h. TL;DR - A worthy follow-up to a great CRPG, with four more games to go. I'd suggest starting with Avernum: Escape from the Pit not just because it's a somewhat better game, but also because it introduces the world of Avernum, and the second game doesn't let you explore much outside of the areas it lets you.
