BeatriceElysia: On 29 DEC I finished wonderfully hard Pathfinder Kingmaker

Pathfinder Kingmaker strongest point is diverse class based system and weakest it's difficulty. I finished the game with hospitaler paladin on story/custom and it was a blast!
I loved the artstyle and I loved the sheer among of skills checks and of course I loved the story.

There are tons of skill checks, some of them require reloading, but I would suggest investing in persuasion for best outcome and always have either Linzi or Octavia near for trickery.

story - I wasn't reading a novel, but playing a game and I enjoyed story nonetheless

companions are in need for better optimization, but they are there and you should definitely use them as presented... with occasional mercenary just for flavor.

Kingdom building was a drag, but I think that's feature that has no place in CRPG.

kai2: Thanks for posting this! Very much appreciate your thoughts on it!

I keep eyeing that game but haven't yet purchased. But then I can't seem to 100% commit to Temple of Elemental Evil either.

May I ask...

What version of the game would you suggest? Basic Explorer?

BeatriceElysia:

BeatriceElysia: on story mode - around 90 hours. But keep in mind this is a difficult game on higher difficulties.

nightcraw1er.488: Can it be played solo? I tried it (after buying full version) and didn’t get far, but it seemed strongly party based?

BeatriceElysia: I can't imagine being the only member in your party, and I really think that won't possibly work without mods. Some people have succeeded in that task, but I hear it was brutal playthrought.

nightcraw1er.488: Shame, I can’t stand baby sitting npcs. They are generally very annoying, get in the way etc. I only take them in baldurs gate if I need a specific quest.