1. Warfare is still really strong, particularly Rage which most people think is completely broken. Elf still the best race.
Previous efensive abilities were nixxed and replaced with leadership (dodge and resist bonus for nearby allies), pain reflection (damage reflect), and perseverance (armor recovery after being hard cc'd, currently a bit undertuned I believe). Armor system is still basically the same.
Primary stats (int,str,dex) were simplified to just grant +5% damage per point. Boring but better than how it was. Con is still weak. 1 Memory = 1 skillslot. Wits is good.
Yep, require 1 actually invested ability to learn skills.
Loot is still meh, but more unique items. Crafting not developed any more.
Undead race is coming along, no real news though.
AI much smarter. Game's more difficult in some ways, though the economy is very generous. Can't really judge difficulty without seeing tactician mode. Stealth can still be cheese if you use it that way. Not sure what you mean about environment tools. Environmental effects are still good, but AI can use them against you much better.
