KotoR has extremely attractive 3D visuals. In my opinion, it is far too linear, the enemy AI is pitiful, and the puzzles are either abysmally or so plainly based upon conventional models as to be laughable. A Tower of Hanoi being used as a test for...well, I can't say, because I don't want to spoil it for you. But for me, the illusion of reality was repeatedly shattered at such moments.
For my money, KotoR was a step forward graphically, and a step or perhaps two back from BG2. The latter had more interesting puzzles, dialog, personalities, and opponents, along with less linearity. Visually, BG2 really showed its age. But (and this is just my point of view) I played through KotoR and felt disappointed at the end, which was not a reaction I'd had with either BG2 or especially Planescape: Torment.
NWN was a great engine and rules set which really didn't hit its stride until the last expansion set. That one finally harnassed the possibilities to produce a really good standalone, roleplaying experience.
Again, these are just my personal opinions: neither better nor worse than any other.
