Fair enough. I am of those who prefer BG1 (and I know Im not alone) because of that sense of danger of being a new adventurer, with little ressource and always having to be careful (as demonstrated by Sven) and the fear that you can die at the hands of gibberlings. Everything you find, every bit of XP, that shiny new +1 weapon, the first time you get a plate armor, you know it counts. Thats what I loved about BG1, the beginning of a grand adventure.
All true. Cash is tight at start so every pelt counts. Like yourself I think both games express each stage properly. BG1 breaking weapons and open areas are fun for low level (encountering actual hostile party of adventurers feels like a challenge), while BG2 magical gear, more adventurous adventures and less traveling more heroing works for more experienced and established party. Being mostly story guy, I just found BG2 more engaging, especially that companions talk more.
