BG1 vs. BG2 Which is better and why?, What do you think? Options

[Baronius]

So which do you like better, Baldur's Gate (with or without TotSC) or Shadows of Amn (ToB)? Tell it here in any size.

[Thorium Dragon]

I think the comparison/contrast between BG1 and BG2 could be summed up as "options" vs. "depth".

In BG1 many more options were available for your character. The freedom of travel, conversations with charmed characters and so on. However, after all avenues of play have been taken, you basically always end up at the same place.

In BG2 you have fewer options on how to approach the game, but there is far more characterization and a bit deeper overall plot as you get, in my opinion, a better sense that what you do affects the whole world.

I think that the choice between BG1 and BG2 is decided by which overall style of game one prefers.

That having been said, I would have to say that I enjoy them equally. I think a direct comparison between the two games has the inherent "apples and oranges" problem.

If I want a fun, tactical game against the beautiful backdrop of an RPG story, I lean toward BG1.

If I want to develop a character and put him into new situations I lean toward BG2.