Heck, even cantrips have surface effects automatically, which almost makes them better than level 1 spells.
Not sure I agree there. Firebolt has had it's damage reduced by quite a lot from it's 5e version. Ray of Frost is supposed to slow down enemies, and that's exactly what it does with the frozen ground.
Honestly I think both of those cantrips have become worse, not better, in BG3. Why? Well ray of frost now requires a save to see if you fall or not, so it's not a consistent enemy slower. Firebolt is no longer a consistent damage dealer.
I don't mind though, I like that they have some utility, I just don't see them as overpowered in any regard.
As per the combat log Fire bolt is strictly better. Does 1d6 damage. Another 1d4 for the burning. Then on the enemies turn they take an additional 1d4 for burning and if the enemy then chooses to move through the fire, which they often do, then they take another d4.
Original is 1d10. And it can also burn thorny vine terrain, explode barrels, and cause all sorts of mayhem.
Also if you miss your attack, the target still takes the burning 1d4 and is still standing in fire.
Ray of frost still slows movement AND has the ability to freeze surfaces and knock prone. More important, it can freeze a puddle and knock nearby enemies or allies prone as well.
