Mate,

ignore Gothic 3, its a total failure and even Piranha dudes admitted it, start with G1, don't be put of but possible early problems of getting use to it, once you do, you will love the game, and then you have G2+expansion to follow up^^

Never read that - from what I read the only issue Pirahna had with it was that JoWood forced them to release long before it was ready. Of course, that could mean the same thing ----. I was a late starter too - chose Gothic I because it was the beginning of the story plus - if I start with the oldest first, I enjoy it more. Often, going back after playing the newer ones is just too much of a letdown.

As per sword play - I never block - just too awkward and I would often hit the wrong key in my reaching-over the keyboard haste and all types of issues would happen. I did fine for the most part just not being ganged up on and swinging the faster one-hander as quickly as possible.

I always used the step back instead of the actual block. Stepping backwards automatically blocks, and when using a two-hander you'll still be in range to attack after blocking once like this.

Might have to try that with a one-hander; I'll just have to move forward. While I said fine, I still take a lot of damage now. Just started playing "III" and blocking is a whole lot better as it is mouse activated.

I`d definitaly start with G1 and afterwards G2. Both are great games, G1 has the better story, G2 better game mechanics. There are also various mods available for this two games.

G3 makes fun, but is not as good as the frst to parts.

I started with 2 because on Steam and GoG I have never seen 1 go on sale and had no money at time and while it is amazing game I feel I am missing out on story so I would say starting with 1