Rather too many people here getting frothy over changes from core 5e rules. Larian do their own version of 5e rules. Elemental surfaces are fun, make the map layout and positioning absolutely crucial, and allow for much more tactical play. Some people get hung up on minute differences from 5e: maybe enjoy the game as it is, if it doesn't work in the game, then critique it in those terms. 5e isn't a bible and it's not useful to be fundamentalist.
Nothing really "not 5e" about surfaces, they aren't the problem, it's how easy they are to come by, and the changes made to spells, that I don't like.
I'd rather see them make most items and spells behave as at the table top, and add a spell or two from their own making if they want more surfaces.
Thing is there are a plethora of rules for surfaces in 5e, and spells who create these effects. Want a burning thing on the floor? Well you got "Create Bonfire", a spell. So why does Firebolt do the same?
Swen often talks about understanding the language of the game, and I feel they are on to something but has somethings lost in transalation.
