The catacombs level is quite a chore
I agree

(but thats only because you can only get the "Deadly gift" spell and scorpion traps after level 7

(After that, taking a few shadow potions while following a scorpion or 2 around, can do miracles - I cleared the entire orc camp without touching a single orc myself)
I thoroughly enjoyed DD1, after i reached level 7. I was able to concentrate on the game, and not really worry about the combat too much.
I suppose it just depends on what mood you are in at the time.... having to hack a monster appart limb by limb with a click fest, has its appeal after a long day at work (with the boss driving you mad)... Other days, i want tactical stuff, stopping short of turn-based fighting (thats just too much for me)