I was halfway there.

^ Stuffed up as usual.

I recommend you to use the Minotaur as an archer: since projectiles do not need dexterity for accuracy, you can just pump his strength to maximum and launch devastating ranged attacks from the back row, especially if you give him the head-hunter trait;
for magic, I used an insectoid specialized in ice spells, really overpowered in the first game for their freezing effect.
In the front row, as long as you use melee fighters you can do what you prefer; personally I used a lizardman rogue for backstabbing (especially when in conjunction with freeze) and a more defensive human fighter with swords.

Thanks Breja, think Ill go for 2 then, I like the idea of overgroundexploration (ala Wiz 8), cheers for the advice, much appreciated! :)
Sorry mate, I should have been more precise, its the exploration that appeals more to me, thanks for the reply :)