I've seen in the reviews for Little Big Adventure 2 that it's much improved over the original game, but even with those enhancements, should I immediately skip to Little Big Adventure 2 and play only that one or is it worth playing the original game first both for the story (if they're connected) and an introduction to the series?

They both are good, its best to play the first one first. No reason to skip it IMO the saving is a little weird initially but you get used to it. While the story isnt really connected between the games its nice to see how things have progressed and stuff. just play LBA1 and then LBA2 you won't regret it.

In answer to the question "should I play two wonderful games, or only one?", I say play them both :)

Both you fool.

LBA 2 makes some improvements, as any sequel should because of feedback. However the story makes a lot more sense having played LBA 1, and the overall world makes more sense. Also, the interface makes more sense, as it's not really explained as much in LBA 2 that you can walk up to a barrel, activate it, and get money out of it.

Just started playing through LBA1 again. It's pretty brutal in terms of difficulty... I've got as far as the second island and suffered many a cheap death already, but it's worth it. Such a phenomenal game. You'll appreciate the sequel so much more if you've finished the first one.

Get it both. I have both original LBA1 in European & US release, and LBA 2 on CD.

LBA1 was very difficult to get it working especially before doxbox was out. And even with it you have to go through configuration & CD ISO mount. I've tried & have all the patches for LBA1; it can be a lot of work.

LBA2 can be played easily by coping the CD content onto HDD. I've had some minor issues before.

GOG versions is click & install, then play. Minimal fuss. Yeah, it can be hard, especially with wall hit. Died so many times bumping into wall then enemies taking advantage of that.

For the first timer, I recommend beating the game original style to get full frustrating experience first. Then you have earned the "right" to use the LBAwin or other no wall hitting mod.