As far as character interaction goes, what you are describing is pretty similar D:OS2, where companions had very specific goals and backgrounds. Sometimes you would be speaking to somebody and they would interject and start acting autonomously because that NPC was a part of their quest. Since BG3 seems very much about a band of characters who are all True Souls, as opposed to the prior games where the Bhaalspawn was the star of the show, I think you will see this, again.
In 5E you start with a selection of different equipment based on your class. I’m sure that this will also be in BG3.
