I would also add: world structure. Using singular large open levels simply have different effect then smaller ones connected via world map. BG1&2 were journeys spanning across multiple locations. D:OD/BG3 approach with no time mechanic, makes the world feel small and static. There are of course, many advantages to Larian single map per chapter approach, especially for COOP, but it is a different design, goal and effect then the old games. And it’s not about being archaic - one could do some innovative and next gen things with a travel system as well.
Yes. I was initially against the idea of dividing the map into small pieces... but it's better than having the world be a setpiece. Everything is close together, creating a theme park impression - and as you say, the world is static without time passage. The waypoint magic travel system doesn't help.
